Food product dispenser and valve

ABSTRACT

A dispenser for dispensing a flowable food product from a flexible reservoir supported by the dispenser is provided. The dispenser includes a frame and a body coupled to the frame. The body defines a cavity for receiving the flexible reservoir. The body includes: a bottom wall defining an opening; a sloped wall extending upward from the bottom wall and the opening, the sloped wall promoting a flow of flowable food product from the flexible reservoir towards the opening; and a pair of side walls extending upward from the bottom wall and the sloped wall. The dispenser further includes a fitment acceptor at least partly received in the opening. Additionally, a shape of the fitment acceptor corresponds with a shape of the opening such that the fitment acceptor is only correctly received in the opening one way.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

The present application is a Continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/600,346, filed May 19, 2017, which is a Divisional of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/506,169, filed Oct. 3, 2014, which claimsthe benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/043,973, filed Aug. 29, 2014, and the benefit of and priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/889,813, filed Oct. 11, 2013, allof which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

The present application relates generally to the field of devices andvalves for dispensing heated flowable materials from containers. Thepresent application relates more particularly to the field of devicesand valves for dispensing heated flowable materials such as foodproducts from flexible packages.

Flowable food products, such as condiments and sauces, are typicallyviscous fluids that are dispensable onto a receiving food product. Forexample, ketchup, mustard, cheese sauce, or chili sauce may be dispensedfrom a dispenser onto a hot dog, burger, or nachos at a conveniencestore or sporting venue. Cheese sauce and chili sauce are typicallyheated in the dispenser to maintain sterility and provide a customerexpected temperature. The dispenser typically includes a housing orhopper configured to support a refillable, reloadable, or replaceablereservoir (e.g., container, sealed package, bag, box, carton, etc.), aheating element, and a valve configured to regulate the flow from thereservoir. The valve may be manually operated or may be or include amotorized pump. Motorized pumps increase the cost and complexity of thedispenser, while manually operated systems may leave un-evacuated foodproduct in the reservoir, unused. Accordingly, there is a need for amanual system that more completely evacuates the reservoir.

SUMMARY

One embodiment relates to a system for dispensing a flowable foodproduct from a reservoir. A wall of the reservoir defines an aperturetherethrough allowing the flowable food product to exit the reservoir.The system includes a valve having a base member having a firstpassageway extending therethrough and a moving member having a secondpassageway extending therethrough, the moving member configured to sliderelative to the base member between a closed position in which the firstpassageway and the second passageway do not overlap and an open positionin which the first passageway and the second passageway overlap. Whenthe moving member is in the open position, an axis extending through thefirst passageway and the second passageway extends through the aperturein the reservoir. The axis may extend substantially vertically. Thesystem may include a fitment coupled to the wall of the reservoir. Thebase may be part of a probe at least a portion of which is configured tobe received in the fitment. The probe may include a plurality of teethconfigured to form the aperture in the wall of the reservoir when theprobe is moved from a shipping position to an installed position. Atleast one of the plurality of teeth may be sharp and another at leastone of the plurality of teeth may be blunted. The fitment may includeone of a rib and a groove, the probe may include the other of the riband the groove, and the other of the rib and the groove may engage theone of the rib and the groove of the fitment to retain the probe to thefitment when the probe is in and installed position. The fitment mayinclude a tang, the moving member may include a detent, and theengagement of the detent and the tang may inhibit movement of the movingmember from the closed position towards the open position. The probe mayinclude an axially extending sidewall, a portion of the sidewall may belocated within the reservoir when the probe is in the installedposition, and the portion of the sidewall within the reservoir maydefine an opening extending radially through the sidewall such thatflowable food product may flow through the opening to the aperture inthe reservoir. The movable member may include a finger extending outwardfrom a body of the moveable member and configured to engage a slotformed in the base, and the finger and the slot may cooperate topartially retain the movable member relative to the base, therebypreventing inadvertent removal of the movable member from the base. Thebase may define at least one guiderail configured to support the movablemember in the lateral direction while the movable member translatesbetween the open and closed positions. The reservoir may include aflexible bag. During operation, the flexible bag may be suspended suchthat at least a portion of the flexible bag is substantially alignedwith the axis. The system may include a dispenser having at least oneprojection from which the flexible bag is suspended. The system mayinclude a dispenser having at least two substantially upright sidewallsthat are spaced sufficiently close together so as to laterally supportthe flexible bag such that the flexible bag remains in a substantiallyupright position. The system may include a dispenser having at least twosubstantially upright sidewalls that are spaced sufficiently closetogether so as to laterally support the flexible bag so that flowablefood product contained therein can be dispensed from the system.

Another embodiment relates to a dispenser for dispensing a flowable foodproduct from a flexible reservoir supported by a dispenser. The flexiblereservoir has a valve configured to selectively dispense the flowablefood product. The dispenser includes a heating plate configured tocontact the flexible reservoir when the flexible reservoir is supportedin the dispenser and a heating element configured to heat the heatingplate. Heat is conducted from the heating plate through the flexiblereservoir to the flowable food product. The heating element mayinductively heat the heating plate. The dispenser may include atemperature sensor supported by the heating plate and positioned tocontact the flexible reservoir. The temperature sensor may extendthrough a hole in the heating plate. The dispenser may include a lightconfigured to illuminate to a user a position indicating where theflowable food product will be dispensed when the dispenser is actuated.The dispenser may include a portion control system having a processorconfigured to receive an input from a user and to actuate the valve topermit a predetermined amount of the flowable food product to flow fromthe flexible reservoir. The portion control system may include a trapconfigured to determine the velocity of a stream of dispensed flowablefood product. The dispenser may include a metal frame supporting atleast one housing, the housing defining a cavity configured to receivethe flexible reservoir.

Another embodiment relates to a system for dispensing a flowable foodproduct from a reservoir. The system includes a valve having a leverthat rotates about an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation ispositioned outside the reservoir and does not pass through thereservoir. An initial actuation of the valve both may create an aperturein the reservoir and open the valve to dispense the flowable foodproduct using the same motion. The lever may include a plurality ofteeth. The reservoir may include a flexible bag. The valve may beintegrated with a fitment, the fitment permanently coupled to thereservoir. The valve may be coupled to a fitment, the fitmentpermanently coupled to the reservoir. The system may include a dispenserconfigured to support the reservoir and the valve.

Another embodiment relates to a dispenser for dispensing a flowable foodproduct from a reservoir supported by a dispenser, the reservoir havinga valve configured to selectively dispense the flowable food product,the dispenser comprising a light configured to illuminate to a user aposition indicating where the flowable food product will be dispensedwhen the dispenser is actuated. The position may be located beneath thevalve. The valve may be axially aligned with a fitment coupled to thereservoir. The position, the valve, and the fitment may be axiallyaligned.

Another embodiment relates to a system for dispensing a flowable foodproduct from a reservoir supported by a dispenser, the reservoir havinga valve configured to selectively dispense the flowable food product,the system comprising a portion control system having a processorconfigured to receive an input from a user and to actuate the valve topermit a predetermined amount of the flowable food product to flow fromthe flexible reservoir. The portion control system may include a trapconfigured to determine the velocity of a stream of dispensed flowablefood product.

The foregoing is a summary and thus, by necessity, containssimplifications, generalizations, and omissions of detail. Consequently,those skilled in the art will appreciate that the summary isillustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Otheraspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices and/orprocesses described herein, as described in the claims, will becomeapparent in the detailed description set forth herein and taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings. Any or all of the features,limitations, configurations, components, subcomponents, systems, and/orsubsystems described above or herein may be used in combination.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top, front, right perspective view of a dispenser, shownaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a top, front, right perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.1 with the housings removed, shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 , shown accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a right elevation cross-sectional view of a dispenser, shownaccording to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a top, front, right perspective view of the frame and somecomponents of the dispenser of FIG. 4 , shown according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged, right side, cross-sectional perspective view of aportion of the dispenser of FIG. 4 , shown according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 7 is schematic perspective view of a reservoir for flowable foodproducts, shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is schematic perspective view of a reservoir for flowable foodproducts, shown according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a top, front, left perspective view of a valve, shownaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a left elevation view of the valve of FIG. 9 , sectionedthrough line 10-10 and showing the valve in a closed position, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a left elevation view of the valve of FIG. 9 , sectionedthrough line 10-10 and showing the valve an open position, according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a left elevation view of a lever of the valve of FIG. 9 ,sectioned through line 10-10, shown according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 13 is a bottom, rear, left perspective view of a lever of the valveof FIG. 9 , shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a bottom, rear, left perspective view of the fitment of thevalve of FIG. 9 , shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a bottom, rear, left perspective view of the valve of FIG. 9, shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a top, front, left perspective view of a valve, shown in aclosed position, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a top, front, left perspective view of the valve of FIG. 16 ,sectioned through line 17-17, shown according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 18 is a top, front, left perspective view of the valve of FIG. 16 ,shown in an open position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a top, front, left perspective view of the valve of FIG. 18 ,sectioned through line 15-15, shown according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 20 is a bottom, front, left perspective view of the valve of FIG.16 , sectioned through line 21-21 and shown in a shipping position,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a bottom, front, left perspective view of the valve of FIG.16 , sectioned through line 21-21 and shown in an operating position,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a left elevation view of the valve of FIG. 18 , sectionedthrough line 22-22 and shown in an open position, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a bottom plan sectional view of the valve of FIG. 16 withportions made transparent, shown in an open position, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a bottom plan sectional view of the valve of FIG. 23 withportions made transparent, shown in a closed position, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a top, front, left perspective view of a component of thevalve of FIG. 16 , shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a top, front, right perspective view of a valve, shownaccording to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a top, rear, right perspective view of the valve of FIG. 26 ,sectioned through line 27-27, shown according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 28 is a right elevation view of a valve, shown with a transparentfitment, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a bottom, front, right exploded perspective view of the valveof FIG. 28 , shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 30 is an enlarged right elevation sectional view of a portion ofthe valve of FIG. 28 , sectioned through line 30-30, shown according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a bottom, front, right exploded perspective view of a valve,shown according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 32 is a top, front, left perspective view of a component of thevalve of FIG. 31 , shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 33 is a right elevation view of the valve of FIG. 31 , sectionedthrough line 33-33, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 34 is a bottom, rear, left perspective view of the valve of FIG. 31, shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 35 is a top, front, left perspective view of a dispenser, shownaccording to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 36 is a top, front, left perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.35 with the front housing opened, shown according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 37 is a top, right perspective exploded view of the dispenser ofFIG. 35 , shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 38 is a top, front, right perspective view of a dispenser, shownaccording to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 39 is a top, front, right perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.38 , shown without the front housing or button, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 40 is a top, front, right perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.38 , shown without the front housing, button, top pan, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 41 is a right elevation of the dispenser of FIG. 38 , sectionedthrough line 41-41, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 42 is a front left perspective view a dispenser, shown according toanother exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 43 is a front left perspective view of a portion of the dispenserof FIG. 42 with the front housing removed, shown according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 44 is a top, rear, left exploded perspective view of a valve, shownaccording to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 45 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of the valve of FIG.44 , shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 46 is a schematic diagram of a portion control system, shownaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 47 is a diagram of a camera image of a stream of flowable foodproduct, shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 48 is a diagram of an emitter and an array of receivers, shownaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 49 is a flowchart of a process for dispensing flowable food productfrom a dispenser, shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 50 is a schematic block diagram of a control system for adispenser, shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 51 is a schematic block diagram of a control circuit for adispenser, shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 52 is a flowchart of a process for controlling the temperature of aflowable food product in a dispenser, shown according to an exemplaryembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-6 , a dispenser 100, 700 configured todispense flowable food products from a reservoir (e.g., bag 200), andcomponents thereof, are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Thedispenser 100, 700 includes a frame 110, 710, a front housing 160, 760,and a rear housing 170, 770 supported by the frame 110, 710. One or bothof the housings 160, 170, 760, 770 at least partially define a cavity172, 772 in which a pan assembly 130, 730 and the bag 200 reside whenthe bag 200 is in an installed position. An exemplary embodiment of thebag 200 is shown in FIG. 7 . When installed, a fitment 210 on the bag200 is place through the opening 136, 736 in the dispenser 100, 700. Anaperture or hole may be formed in a wall of the bag to allow flowablefood product to flow out of the bag through the fitment. A valve 300,400, 500, 800, 1000, 1600 coupled to the bag 200 via a fitment 210, 310,410, 510, 810, 1010 may be actuated (e.g., opened and closed) bypressing a button 156, 756 located on the front of the dispenser. Whenthe valve 300, 400, 500, 800, 1000, 1600 is opened, flowable foodproduct falls onto food receiving products located in a zone 102, 702underneath the valve. One or more heating elements 144, 744 are coupledto the pan assembly 130, 730 and heat the flowable food product tomaintain its temperature at a safe storage level.

Before discussing further details of the dispenser, the valve, and/orthe components thereof, it should be noted that references to “front,”“back,” “rear,” “upward,” “downward,” “inner,” “outer,” “right,” and“left” in this description are merely used to identify the variouselements as they are oriented in the FIGURES. These terms are not meantto limit the element which they describe, as the various elements may beoriented differently in various applications.

It should further be noted that for purposes of this disclosure, theterm “coupled” means the joining of two members directly or indirectlyto one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or moveable innature and/or such joining may allow for the flow of fluids,electricity, electrical signals, or other types of signals orcommunication between the two members. Such joining may be achieved withthe two members or the two members and any additional intermediatemembers being integrally formed as a single unitary body with oneanother or with the two members or the two members and any additionalintermediate members being attached to one another. Such joining may bepermanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable innature.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3 , a dispenser 100 and components thereof areshown according to an exemplary embodiment. The dispenser 100 isconfigured to support and dispense flowable food product from areservoir, shown as bag 200, and includes a frame 110, a front housing160, and a rear housing 170. The frame 110 may include a base 112configured to rest upon a surface (e.g., countertop, bar, table, etc.)and an upper portion 114 that is supported by the base 112 andconfigured to at least partially support the front housing 160, the rearhousing 170, and other components of the dispenser 100. A zone 102,generally defined as being above the base 112 of the frame 110 and belowthe front housing 160 and/or the upper portion 114 of the frame 110,allows for receiving products (e.g., sausage, chips, bowls, etc.) to beplaced in appropriate proximity to the dispenser 100 to receive theflowable food product.

The frame 110 includes a support bracket 116 that is supported by theupper portion 114 and configured to at least partially support a panassembly 130. The support bracket 116 is shown to include a pair ofspaced apart top rails 118, a pair of spaced apart rear rails 120extending downward from the top rails 118, and a cross-member 122extending between the rear rails 120. A rear portion 124 (e.g., cage,brace, buttress, support, etc.) of the frame 110 supports the rearhousing 170. According to the embodiment shown, the rear portion 124contacts the rear housing 170 to provide stiffness thereto, thusfacilitating movement of the dispenser 100 and imparting a feeling ofquality to the dispenser 100.

According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the frame 110 is assembledfrom the plurality of separate components and is configured to befreestanding, i.e., it does not rely upon the front housing 160 or therear housing 170 to provide support to the frame 110. According to otherembodiments, the frame 110 may be formed as a single piece (e.g., castmetal, cast aluminum, injection molded plastic, etc.). Using a metalframe provides greater strength and reduces cracking relative toplastic, thereby reducing downtime of the dispenser 100. Further, theincreased strength of the metal frame 110 enables a reducedcross-section of the neck 111 of the frame 110, thereby increasing thefore-aft depth of the zone 102. An increased fore-aft depth of the zone102 increases the ability to dispense flowable food product ontoreceiving products having a greater diameter (e.g., the valve may becentered over a larger diameter plate of chips).

The pan assembly 130 may include a body 132 configured to be locatedbetween the pair of top rails 118 and the pair of rear rails 120. Thepan assembly 130 may include one or more thermally conductive walls orplates and one or more heating elements 144 coupled to the one or moreof the walls. As shown, the body 132 includes a bottom wall 134 definingan opening 136. The opening 136 is configured to receive the fitment 210of the bag 200 (see FIG. 7 for an exemplary embodiment of the bag 200).A sloped wall 138 extends upwardly and rearwardly from the bottom wall134. The incline of the sloped wall 138 promotes the flow of theflowable food product in the bag 200 down toward the bottom wall 134,opening 136, and the valve, thereby causing a more complete, hands-freeevacuation of the bag 200. As shown, the sloped wall 138 is at leastpartially supported by the cross-member 122.

The pan assembly 130 further includes sidewalls 140 extending upwardfrom the bottom wall 134 and the sloped wall 138 to an upper region 148.The sidewalls 140 include openings or recesses configured to receive thethermally conductive plates 142. The thermally conductive (e.g.,metallic, etc.) plates 142 distribute heat from the heating element 144.The heating element 144 is shown to wrap underneath the body 132 and tohold the plates 142 between the heating element 144 and a plurality ofclips. One or more of the thermally conductive plates 142 may define ahole 145 configured to receive a temperature sensor 146. Using thermallyconductive plates 142 facilitates conducting heat from the heatingelement 144 to the flowable food product while limiting the temperaturerise of other portions of the pan assembly 130, thereby increasingenergy efficiency. According to some embodiments, other portions of thepan assembly 130 may be formed of less thermally conducting materials orthermally insulative materials, thereby retaining heat, increasingenergy efficiency, and reducing undesirable temperature rise in otherportions of the dispenser 100. According to other embodiments, theplates 142 may be the heating elements, and the sleeve (shown as heatingelement 144) may be a heat conducting or spreading element. According tovarious embodiments, the heating elements 144 may be of any suitabletype (e.g., resistive, inductive, radiant, etc.). According to oneembodiment, the heating elements 144 may include electromagnetic coilsconfigured to induce a current, and thereby heat, the plates 142, whichin turn conductively heat the flowable food product. Use of inductionheating may provide lower energy costs and reduce undesirabletemperature rise in other portions of the dispenser 100, for example,plastic and aluminum components (e.g., the housing 160, 170, the frame110, etc.) will not heat in response to the magnetic field.

The upper region 148 has a structure 150 (e.g., lip, boss, flange,buttress, etc.) configured to be supported by the top rails 118. Theupper region 148 includes one or more projections (e.g., bosses, hooks,etc.) shown as studs 152, configured to be received by correspondingsupport holes 208 provided in the bag 200, thereby allowing the bag 200to be hung substantially vertically. According to another embodiment,the projections may extend from or be directly coupled to one or more ofthe top rails 118 of the frame 110. According to another embodiment, thebag 200 may be lowered into the dispenser 100, and the body 130 may beconfigured to hold the bag 200 in a substantially upright position. Forexample, the sidewalls of the body 132 (or body 732 of FIG. 4 ) and/orthe heating plates 142,144 may be sufficiently close together so as tolaterally support the bag 200 so as to, in cooperation with the bottomwall 134 and the sloped wall 138, hold the bag 200 in a substantiallyupright or vertical position. According to the exemplary embodimentshown, orienting the bag 200 substantially vertically in combinationwith resting the bag 200 on the sloped wall 138 promotes a more completeevacuation of the bag 200.

Hanging the bag 200 substantially vertically in a relatively tall narrowcavity and in contact with the thermally conductive plates 142 mayincrease the surface area relative to volume of the bag 200, andmaximizes the direct physical contact between the portions of the bag200 containing flowable food product and the thermally conductive plates142. This causes a more efficient heat transfer from the heatingelements 144, through the plates 142, through the bag 200, and into theflowable food product, resulting in reduced energy costs and morequickly raising the temperature of the flowable food product tooperating temperature. Using a conductive heat transfer method providesa more efficient and consistent temperature in the flowable food productas compared to convection heating used in typical flowable food productdispensers. Further, the vertical orientation of the bag 200 inhibitsfolding or wadding of the bag 200, which improves evacuation efficiencyand reduces air gaps between the bag 200 and the plates 142, therebyimproving heat transfer.

Further, by locating the temperature sensor 146 on one of the walls ofthe pan assembly 130, the temperature sensor 146 is in direct contactwith the bag 200, thereby obtaining a more direct and accuratetemperature measurement of the flowable food product inside the bag 200as compared to approximating the temperature of the flowable foodproduct inside the bag 200 based upon a measurement of the temperatureof the air in the dispenser 100, as is done in typical flowable foodproduct dispensers. Obtaining a more accurate temperature measurement ofthe flowable food product facilitates more energy efficient control ofthe heating elements 144 (e.g., less overheating), maintenance of a moreconsistent temperature (which may improve flavor consistency), andincreased confidence that the flowable food product stays above aminimum safe temperature. The lifespan of the flowable food product oncethe bag 200 has been opened decreases as the temperature of the flowablefood product increases. Accordingly, more accurate and consistentcontrol of the flowable food product to maintain the temperature of theflowable food product just above the minimum safe temperature prolongsthe potential dispensing life of the flowable food product. Further,placing the temperature sensor 146 near the opening 136 (e.g. in thebottom wall 134) provides a measurement of the next portion of flowablefood product to be served from the dispenser. According to anotherembodiment, the pan assembly 130 may include multiple heating elementsthat may be independently controlled, thereby allowing differentportions of the flowable food product to be heated differently, andthereby facilitating a more even distribution of temperature throughoutthe flowable food product. According to one embodiment, a signal fromthe temperature sensor 146 may cause a display (e.g., LED, LED display147, LCD display, video screen, etc.) to indicate that the temperatureof the flowable food product is within acceptable operating parameters.The display may also be configured to alert a user if power to thedispenser has been disrupted, which could indicate the temperature ofthe flowable food product fell outside of acceptable temperature ranges.According to various embodiments, components of the dispenser 100 (e.g.,heating elements 144, etc.) may be controlled by a control system (e.g.,control system 1400, described in more detail below) having processingelectronics (e.g., processing electronics 1406, described in more detailbelow), which may be configured to receive a signal from the temperaturesensor 146.

The pan assembly 130 may include a front surface 131. The front surface131 may include graduated marks 133. The graduated marks 133 indicate toa user the amount (e.g., level, proportion, etc.) of flowable foodproduct remaining in the bag 200. The vertical orientation of the bag200 and the relatively narrow cavity 172 hold the flowable food productin an orientation that facilitates the use of graduated markings. Thegraduated marks 133 may be particularly advantageous for determining ausage rate (e.g., ounces per hour, volume per time, etc.) of flowablefood product, and, in turn, facilitates determining when to beginheating the next bag of flowable food product. For example, (time toheat a bag of flowable food product to operating temperature) times(usage rate in volume per time of the flowable food product) equals(volume remaining in the dispenser at which point the next bag shouldbegin heating).

An actuator housing 154 may be coupled to the frame 110 and/or the panassembly 130. The actuator housing 154 passes over a sleeve 158 thatextends downward from the opening 136 and is configured to receive thefitment 210. The actuator housing 154 supports an actuator, shown as abutton 156, that passes through the sleeve 158 and is interconnectedwith a valve. The button 156 is configured to receive an actuating forceand/or motion from a user and transfer that force or motion to a valve,thereby allowing flowable food product to be dispensed. According to theembodiment shown, the sleeve 158 may extend below the actuator housing154 to provide a visual indicator to a user of the location of thestream 252 of the dispensed flowable food product. According to otherembodiments, the sleeve 158 may not extend below the actuator housing154 and/or the valve, thereby reducing the likelihood that flowable foodproduct may contact the sleeve 158 during opening or closing of thevalve.

The rear housing 170 is supported by the frame 110 and at leastpartially defines a cavity 172 in which a pan assembly 130 and the bag200 reside when the bag 200 is in an installed position. The rearhousing 170 prevents inadvertent contact with hot components of thedispenser 100. The rear housing 170 may be formed of any suitablydurable material, for example, a low-cost, lightweight plastic.

The front housing 160 is also supported by the frame 110. For loadingand unloading of the bag 200 into the dispenser 100, the front housing160 may simply be removed (e.g., lifted off of, etc.) from the frame 110in order to provide access to the pan assembly 130. According to anotherembodiment, the front housing 160 may be hingedly coupled to the frame110.

Referring to FIGS. 4-6 , a dispenser 700 and components thereof areshown according to an exemplary embodiment. The dispenser 700 issubstantially similar to the dispenser 100 described with respect toFIGS. 1-3 , with like numbered reference numerals referring to generallysimilar components. For example, the dispenser 700 is configured tosupport and dispense flowable food product from a reservoir, shown asbag 200, and includes a frame 710, a front housing 760, and a rearhousing 770. The frame 710 may include a base 712 configured to restupon a surface (e.g., countertop, bar, table, etc.) and an upper portion714 that is supported by the base 712 and configured to at leastpartially support the front housing 760, the rear housing 770, and othercomponents of the dispenser 700. A zone 702, generally defined as beingabove the base 712 of the frame 710 and below the front housing 760and/or the upper portion 714 of the frame 710, allows for receivingproducts (e.g., sausage, chips, bowls, etc.) to be placed in appropriateproximity to the dispenser 700 to receive the flowable food product.Some of the features of the dispenser 700 will be described below, andit is contemplated that various combinations of the features of thedispensers 100, 700 may also be constructed.

The dispenser 700 is shown not to include a rear portion (compare rearportion 124 in FIG. 3 ) of the frame 710. Instead, the rear housing 770includes a plurality of ribs 774. According to the exemplary embodiment,the ribs 774 extend horizontally inward from the outer wall of the rearhousing 770. The ribs 774 of the exemplary embodiment have asubstantially “C” or “horseshoe” shape such that they may extend aroundthe body 732 of the pan assembly 730. According to one embodiment, theribs 774 and the body 732 contact so as to provide mutual support andrigidity to the dispenser 700. According to one embodiment, the ends ofthe ribs 774 (i.e., the heels of the horseshoe) may contact the rearrails 720 of the frame 710, thereby providing support and rigidity tothe rear housing 770.

The dispenser 700 includes a pan assembly 730, a body 732 of which maybe supported by and located between the pair of top rails 718 and thepair of rear rails 720. The pan assembly 730 is shown to be formed of asa single piece. The continuous, smooth opening of a single body 732facilitates cleaning and heat distribution, and reduces the possibilityof the bag 200 snagging during insertion; however, it is contemplatedthat the pan assembly 730 may be formed of multiple pieces (see, e.g.,plates 142 in FIGS. 2-3 ). According to the exemplary embodiment, thebody 732 may be formed of a thermally conductive material (e.g., metal,aluminum, thermally conductive plastic, etc.). One or more thermallyinsulative inserts 719 may be used to space apart and/or insulate thebody 732 from the frame 710 and the housings 760, 770, which may reducethe external surface temperature of the dispenser 700 and increase theefficiency of the heat transfer from the pan assembly 730 to the bag200. One or more heating elements 744 may be thermally coupled to thebody 732. As shown, the heating element 744 may be a heating pad wrappedat least partially around the body 732 such that heat from the heatingelement 744 conducts through the body 732 and the bag 200 into theflowable food product.

The body 732 is shown to include a bottom wall 734 defining an opening736. The opening 736 is configured to receive the fitment 210 of the bag200 (see FIG. 7 for an exemplary embodiment of the bag 200). A rearsloped wall 738 extends upwardly and rearwardly from the bottom wall734, and a front sloped wall 739 extends upwardly and forwardly from thebottom wall 734. The incline of the sloped walls 738, 739 promotes theflow of the flowable food product in the bag 200 down toward the bottomwall 734, opening 736, and the valve, thereby causing a more complete,hands-free evacuation of the bag 200.

As shown, a fitment acceptor 780 is received in the opening 736. Thefitment acceptor 780 includes an upper flange 782 and one or moresidewalls 784 (shown to include forward sidewall 784 a and rearwardsidewall 784 b) extending down from the upper flange 782. The interface786 (e.g., corner, edge, etc.) between the upper flange 782 and thesidewalls 784 is chamfered (e.g., angled, softened, rounded, etc.) toguide the fitment 210 and/or valve 300, 400, 500, 800 into an installedposition when the bag 200 is lowered into an installed position.According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the forward sidewall 784 aand the rearward sidewall 784 b have different radii of curvature, eachof which corresponds to a radius of curvature at the respective frontand rear ends of the fitment 210. Accordingly, the differing andcorresponding radii prevent the fitment 210, and therefore the bag 200,from being improperly installed (e.g., backwards). Further, theparticular shape of the fitment acceptor may inhibit an improper product(e.g., chili versus cheese, plain versus jalapeno, etc.) from beinginstalled into the dispenser 700, if the various products includedifferently shaped fitments. According to the embodiment shown, theupper flange 782 of the fitment acceptor 780 sits flush with the bottomwall 734 to prevent snagging of the bag 200, and my be removed from thedispenser 700 to facilitate cleaning. According to the embodiment shown,a second acceptor 780′ may be stored in a compartment 788 at the rear ofthe dispenser 700. The second acceptor 780′ may be a spare acceptor 780,or may have a different shape for receiving different flowable foodproducts. As shown, a cosmetic cover 789 may be coupled to the rearhousing 770 to support and conceal the second acceptor 780′ and toconceal fasteners holding the dispenser 700 together.

During installation of the bag 200, the front housing 760 may be removedfrom the frame 110 or rotated out of position to expose the cavity 772.A bag 200 in the dispenser 700 may be lifted out of the cavity 772, andanother bag 200 may be lowered into the cavity 772. The chamferedinterface 786 guides the fitment 210 into an installed position.Accordingly, the user may hold the bag 200 only from the top and neednot touch or manipulate the fitment. This advantageously improveshygiene by reducing touching of the fitment and keeps the user's handsaway from the pan body 732 to facilitate hot swapping of the bag 200.

Referring to FIG. 6 , an enlarged perspective view of a portion of thedispenser 700 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 6 isshown to include a valve 800 (to be described in more detail below) inan installed position, with a transparent fitment 210, 810 but withoutthe bag 200. As shown, the slider 850 of the valve 800 is in a first orclosed position, but may be moved to a second or open position.

The dispenser 700 includes an actuator housing 754, which supports anactuator, shown as a button 756. The button 756 is shown to include aplunger 751 and a cap 753. Forming the button 756 of two pieces enablesdifferent colored or textured caps to be used on the button 756, forexample, to indicate different types or flavors of flowable foodproduct. According to other embodiments, the button 756 may be a unitarypiece.

The button 756 is configured to receive an actuating force and/or motionfrom a user and transfer that force or motion to the valve 800, therebyallowing flowable food product to be dispensed. According to theembodiment shown, the actuating force is a press (e.g., depress, push,etc.), but other embodiments are contemplated in which the actuationforce is a pull or turn.

A spring 755 extends between a flange or ledge 757 on the button 756 anda rear wall of the actuator housing 754. The spring 755 causes thebutton 756 and the valve 800 to return to a closed position when theactuating force is reduced or removed from the button 756. Accordingly,because the spring 755 is part of the actuator assembly and acts on thebutton 756, no spring is needed on the valve 800. This can reduce thecomplexity of the valve, reduce the part cost of the valve, and reducethe possibility of the spring being contaminated with flowable foodproduct, which may reduce the spring's ability to operate. As will bedescribed below, the plunger 751 is configured to engage the valve 800to both push the valve 800 open and pull the valve 800 closed. Accordingto another embodiment, a second plunger may be located behind the valve,opposite the plunger 751 and spring loaded in the same direction. Insuch an embodiment, a spring attached to the second plunger iscompressed by the slider of the valve when the valve is moved toward theopen position, and the spring attached to the second plunger pushes thevalve closed when opening force is removed from the plunger 751. Havingtwo springs distributes the resisting load, allowing for smallersprings, and enables different spring rates to be chosen for the twosprings to calibrate the feel of the actuation versus closing of thevalve.

The forward sidewall 784 a and the corresponding interface 786 of thefitment acceptor 780 extend over the plunger 751 and away from the rearwall of the actuator housing. Accordingly, the fitment acceptor acts asa guard (e.g., shade, umbrella, etc.) to divert any spilled flowablefood product away from the plunger 751 and any joints in the housing,thus increasing hygiene and facilitating cleanup.

The actuator housing 754 is further shown to include a mount 790configured to receive a light (LED, laser, bulb, etc.; not shown).Referring to FIG. 4 , the mount 790 orients the light such that a beam792 of light illuminates the base 712 to create an indicated spot 794.As shown, the indicator spot 794 is directly below the opening 736 orthe opening 826 (e.g., passageway) of the valve 800. Accordingly, a useris directed where to place the receiving product to receive the flowablefood product without having to look under the dispenser 700 to see theoutlet. According to another embodiment, the mount 790 may orient thebeam 792 such that the beam intersects an axis F extending down from theopening 736 at a predetermined height above the base 712. For example,the beam 792 may be oriented to illuminate an area on the top of areceiving product directly below the opening 736 resting on the base712. According to one embodiment, the beam 792 is oriented to intersectthe axis F at a height of between approximately 3 to approximately 4inches (e.g., between approximately 7 and 10 cm) above the surface ofthe base 712. As shown, the mount 790 is located such that the beam 792is oriented at a steep angle relative to the axis F. The steep anglereduces the horizontal distance differential between the area of thebase 712 illuminated by the beam 792 and the area of the receivingproduct illuminated by the beam 792, thereby increasing the accuracy ofthe indication of where the flowable food product will land whendispensed.

According to another embodiment, the beam 792 may be diffuse such thatan area on the top surface of the receiving product along axis F isilluminated. For example, the beam 792 may form a cone, and the cone maybe oriented that the axis F extends within the cone up to a height ofapproximately 3 inches to approximately 4 inches (e.g., approximately 7to 10 cm) above the surface of the base 712. According to anotherembodiment, the dispenser 700 may include a second mount 790′ configuredto orient a second light to project a second beam 792′. According tovarious embodiments, the first and second beams 792, 792′ may beoriented to intersect at the indicated spot 794, or at a distance aboveor below the surface of the base 712 along the axis F. The first andsecond beams 792, 792′ may be oriented to illuminate the base 712 atsymmetrically opposite sides of the axis F. Accordingly, the axis Fwould remain between the two illuminated points or areas, regardless ofthe height of the receiving product, thereby providing a user anindication of where the flowable food product will land on the receivingproduct.

Referring to FIG. 7 , a reservoir, shown as bag 200, for a flowable foodproduct is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown, the bag200 includes a top portion 202 and a bottom portion 204. A fitment 210is coupled to the bottom portion 204 of the bag 200, preferably towardsone side so that when the bag 200 is in an installed position, thefitment 210 may be located proximate the opening 136, and the bottomportion 204 of the bag 200 may be supported in an inclined fashion onthe sloped wall 138. The fitment 210 includes a flange 212, which iscoupled to the bag 200, and an outwardly extending wall 214 extendingoutward from the bag 200. A central portion of the fitment 210 is openso as to define a portion of the bag 200 that is accessible through thefitment 210. According to one embodiment, the bag 200 is sterilized andthen filled with the flowable food product through the fitment, and acap is placed on the fitment 210 to seal the bag 200. According to theembodiment shown, the bottom portion 204 is a closed portion, and theflowable food product is placed in the bag 200 through the top portion202, which is then sealed shut (e.g., via welding, adhesive, etc.) atline 206. An aperture may then be formed into (e.g., through thesidewall of) the bag 200 to allow flowable food product to exit the bag200. According to an exemplary embodiment, the aperture is formed in theportion of the bag 200 that is accessible through the fitment 210. Oneor more holes 208 may be formed in the bag 200 in the top portion 202above the line 206, i.e., in a portion of the bag that does not containflowable food product. Utilizing gravity, the bag 200 may be hung in thedispenser 100 by placing the studs 152 of the pan assembly 130 throughthe holes 208. In an installed position, the bag 200 is located in thedispenser 100 such that the outwardly extending wall 214 of the fitment210 passes at least partially through the opening 136.

Referring briefly to FIG. 8 , a conventional fitment 210′ is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. The fitment 210′ includes a flange212′, which is coupled to the bag 200, and an outwardly extending wall214′ extending outward from the bag 200. While several fitments (e.g.,fitments 210, 210′, 310, 410, 510, 810, 1010, etc.) are shown anddescribed in this specification, fitment 210 may be used generically forthe purposes of simplification.

A valve 300, 400, 500, 800, 1000 may be coupled to the fitment 210 toselectively allow flowable food product to flow from the bag 200 throughthe valve 300, 400, 500, 800, 1000. As will be described in more detailbelow, the valves may be integrated into the fitment 210. That is, thevalve 300, 400, 500, 800, 1000 may be part of the fitment 210 when thefitment is coupled to the bag 200 or the valve may be part of the capused to seal the bag 200 closed, such that the customer receives a bag200 with fitment 210 and valve 300, 400, 500, 800, 1000 attached.According to other embodiments, the valve 300, 400, 500, 800, 1000 maybe coupled to the fitment 210. That is, the valve 300, 400, 500, 800,1000 may be a separate component that may be snapped or screwed onto thefitment 210 by the customer.

While many valves, both novel and known in the art, may be used with thebag 200 and the dispenser 100, 600 described herein, five exemplaryembodiments of valves will be described in detail below. Each of thevalves 300, 400, 500, 800, 1000 is a gravity fed valve. That is, thereis no pump required, thereby reducing the production and operating costsof the dispenser 100 while increasing reliability. Each of the valves300, 400, 500, 800, 1000 is configured to permit the flowable foodproduct to fall straight down from the bag 200 to the receiving product.Such a straight drop facilitates better evacuation of the bag 200 andreduced loss of flowable food product left outside of the bag in hosesor tubes. The straight drop also facilitates a more instant dispensingof the bag, without having to fill or prime the system (e.g., tubes,hoses, valves, pumps, etc.) before the flowable food product isdispensed, thereby resulting in quicker confirmation that the bag isinstalled properly and overall faster bag exchanges. The valves 300,400, 500, 800 are configured to minimize the distance between the valveand the bag 200, which keeps the valves closer to the heating elementand reduces the amount of flowable food product that is in the system(e.g., tubes, hoses, etc.) but thermally remote from the heatingelement, thereby facilitating maintenance of the flowable food productwithin acceptable operating temperatures and dispensing of moreconsistent flowable food product.

Referring to FIGS. 9-15 , a valve 300 is shown to be integrated with thefitment 310, according to an exemplary embodiment. The fitment 310 hasan outward extending sidewall 314 and a flange 312 that permanentlycouples the bag 200 using an adhesive or welding process. The fitment310 further includes a bottom wall, shown as floor 320, having anopening 322 (e.g. passageway, conduit, etc.) extending therethrough. Thevalve 300 further includes a lever 330 (best seen in FIG. 13 ) includinga first lever arm 331 and a second lever arm 332. The lever 330 includesa pair of pegs 334 (e.g., protrusions, bosses, etc.) that define an axisA about which the lever 330 can be rotated. According to the exemplaryembodiment, the axis A is positioned outside of the bag 200 and does notpass through the bag 200 (e.g., the axis A is substantiallyperpendicular to the bag 200, is not a twist cap, etc.). Duringassembly, the pegs 334 are received in complementary slots 316 (e.g.,groove, channel, etc.) that are defined on an inner portion of thesidewall 314 of the fitment 310. The slots 316 include a detent 318(shown, for example, in FIG. 14 ) to inhibit removal of the lever 330from the fitment 310.

The first lever arm 331 is configured to receive an actuating motionfrom the user (for example, via the button 156 on the dispenser 100) andtransfer that motion to the second lever arm 332. Accordingly, the lever330 rotates between a first position, shown for example in FIG. 10 , inwhich the valve 300 is closed, and the second position, shown forexample in FIG. 11 , in which the valve 300 is open. According to theembodiment shown, an upper side of the second lever arm 332 includes apiercing portion 340 configured to pierce (e.g., tear, rip, open, cut,puncture, etc.) the bag 200 and a lower side of the second lever arm 332includes plunger 336 (e.g., plug, stopper, etc.) configured to seal theopening 322. Accordingly, the second lever arm 332 is configured to bothinitially pierce the bag 200 during the first actuating motion by theuser and to remove a plunger 336 (e.g., plug, stopper, etc.) from anopening 322, thereby allowing flowable food product to exit the bag 200through the valve 300. According to various embodiments, the bag 200 maybe shipped with the valve 300 closed and the fitment 310 permanentlycoupled to the bag 200 such that the piercing portion 340 remainssterile.

Piercing portion 340 is shown to include a plurality of teeth 342 topierce the bag 200 and form a substantially U-shaped rip therein. TheU-shaped rip in the bag 200 forms a flap 220 which remains attached thebag 200 and, therefore, does not create a free-floating piece ofmaterial in the flowable food product. Further, as shown, in FIG. 11 ,the flap 220 remains on top of the second lever arm 332 and is therebymoved out of the way of the valve opening 322 during every actuation ofthe valve 300.

As shown, for example, in FIG. 12 , the plurality of teeth 342 areshaped so that each individual tooth is substantially perpendicular tothe surface of the bag 200 when the tooth 342 makes contact with the bag200 as it strikes to cut. The teeth 342 are further configured tocontact the bag 200 sequentially, thereby reducing the contact area andincreasing the piercing/tearing pressure at each tooth 342. According toa preferred embodiment, the teeth 342 have a substantially triangular orpyramidal shape having an angle more acute than 55 degrees. A subset ofthe plurality of teeth 342 includes one or more first teeth 342 a (e.g.,front teeth, long teeth, etc.), which are located farthest from the axisA of rotation of the lever 330. The first teeth 342 a are longer thanthe other teeth 342 which are closer to the axis A. The first teeth 342a pierce the bag 200 first, and once the bag 200 is pierced, it iseasier for the remaining teeth 342 to continue to rip the bag 200. Oneor more ribs 338, shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 to extend longitudinally alongthe second lever arm 332, provide added strength during the piercing ofthe bag 200.

Accordingly, the valve 300 performs the dual function of first creatingan opening in the sealed, sterilized bag 200 and then selectivelyopening the valve 300 to dispense the flowable food product from the bag200, using the same motion. That is, the initial actuation of the valve300 both opens the bag 200 and dispenses the flowable food product.Accordingly, installation of the bag 200 into the dispenser 100 issimplified, and the bag 200 remains sealed as long as possible to retainfreshness of the flowable food product.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 13-15 , the lever 330 includes a substantiallycylindrical (e.g., round, arcuate, curved, etc.) body portion 350 thatis substantially coaxial with axis A. The cylindrical body portion 350is received by a generally cylindrical (e.g., round, arcuate, curved,etc.) portion 352 of the fitment 310. The cylindrical portion 352includes an inner surface of an inner wall 354 and an inner surface of atab 324 that extends from the floor 320 of the fitment 310. A gap 356between the tab 324 and the inner wall 354 permits the first lever arm331 to pass therethrough. The interface of the cylindrical body portion350 and the cylindrical portion 352 provides a seal throughout therotational range of the lever 330.

One or more feet 326 extend downward from the second lever arm 332 tospace the second lever arm 332 apart from the floor 320 of the fitment310. Providing a gap between the floor 320 and the second lever arm 332facilitates closure of the valve 300 (i.e., entry of the plunger 336 andto the opening 322) despite the presence of flowable food product, orparticulates therein, between the second lever arm 332 and the floor320, thereby reducing inadvertent drips of flowable food product fromthe dispenser 100. For example, the feet 326 help to prevent the valve300 from being stuck open by particulates (i.e., beans, meat, chilisauce, chili cheese sauce, etc.) in the flowable food product betweenthe second lever arm 332 and the floor 320.

The valve 300 includes a spring configured to prevent the valve 300 fromopening accidentally and to ensure that the plunger 336 returns into theopening 322, thereby stopping the flow of the flowable food product whenthe button 156 is released. According to the exemplary embodiment, thespring includes a resilient member, shown as finger 360, extending fromthe first lever arm 331. The finger 360 contacts and pushes against atab (e.g., flange, member, tab 324, etc.) near the axis A of rotation inorder to provide a closing force (e.g. pushback) in response to a smalldeflection, thereby improving the lifespan of the finger 360. Attachingthe finger 360 to the bottom of the first lever arm 331 facilitatesassembly of the lever 330 into the fitment 310. That is, the finger 360deflects and snaps into position after insertion into the fitment 310through the gap 356.

A pair of beams 362 of first lever arm 331 are located on either side ofthe finger 360 to protect the finger 360 from interference. While thefinger 360 contacts the tab 324, the beams 362 pass along either side ofthe tab 324 allowing rotation of the lever 330.

As shown, the first lever arm 331 extends at an angle forward ofvertical, which allows a greater angle of rotation of the lever 330before the first lever arm 331 extends below the opening 322 and intothe stream of flowable food product. According to the exemplaryembodiment shown, when lever 330 is in the first position, the firstlever arm 331 extends forward at an angle of approximately 22 degreesfrom the vertical. Accordingly, based on the length of the first leverarm 331, the lever 330 may rotate approximately 60 degrees without thefirst lever arm 331 interfering with the stream of flowable food productfrom the dispenser 100. For the length of the second lever arm 332shown, rotation of about 60 degrees provides sufficient clearance forflowable food product to pass under the second lever arm 332 and outthrough the opening 322.

Shrouds 328, shown as left shroud 328 a and right shroud 328 b, extenddownward from the sidewalls 314 of the fitment 310 to protect the firstlever arm 331 from lateral forces and from accidental operation. One ormore ribs 329 extend substantially vertically along the shroud 328 toprovide strength to the shroud 328 and to facilitate alignment of thefitment 310 into the opening 136 during installation of the bag 200 intothe dispenser 100.

Referring to FIGS. 16-25 , a second valve 400 is shown integrated into afitment 410, according to an exemplary embodiment. The fitment 410 has aflange 412 which is permanently coupled to the bag 200 and one or moreoutwardly extending sidewalls 414 substantially defining a bore orshaft. The shape of the sidewall 414 (e.g., periphery, cross-section,plan view, etc.) may be configured to facilitate alignment or engagementof the fitment 410 to the opening 136 of the dispenser 100. A probe 420is shown to have a base 422, including an upper wall 424 through whichan opening 426 (e.g. passageway, conduit, etc.) extends, and a piercingportion 440 extending upward from the base 422 and configured to slideaxially through the bore of the fitment 410 to pierce the bag 200.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21 , the probe 420 moves axially between afirst or shipping position (shown for example in FIG. 20 ), in which theworking end of the piercing portion 440 is contained within the fitment410, and a second or operating position (shown for example in FIG. 21 )in which the working end of the piercing portion 440 extends from thefitment 410 so as to pierce the bag 200. The piercing portion 440includes a sidewall 444 configured to slide within the sidewall 414 ofthe fitment 410. Piercing portion 440 may include a first rib 446configured to engage a first groove 416 in the sidewall 414 of thefitment 410. The engagement of the rib 446 in the groove 416 acts as adetent holding the probe 420 in the shipping position. Piercing portion440 is further shown to include a second rib 447 that engages the groove416 to secure the probe 420 in the operating position. According to theembodiment shown, the sidewall 414 may define a second groove 418 toreceive the first rib 446 to further secure the probe 420 in theoperating position.

When the probe 420 moves from the shipping position to the operatingposition, teeth 442 of the piercing portion 440 pierce and rip open thebag 200. The teeth 442 are shown to include a first tooth 442 a that istaller than the remaining teeth 442. The first tooth 442 a is closest tothe bag 200 when the probe 420 is in the shipping position than are theremainder of the teeth 442. Accordingly, the first tooth 442 a firstcontacts and pierces the bag 200, thereby facilitating the other teeth442 to rip open the bag 200. The teeth 442 are configured to contact thesurface of the bag 200 sequentially, thereby reducing the contact areaand increasing the piercing/tearing pressure at each tooth 442. Theteeth 442 form a substantially U-shaped rip aperture (e.g., hole,opening, etc.) in the bag 200. The U-shaped rip aperture in the bag 200forms a flap 220 which remains attached to the bag 200 and, therefore,does not create a free-floating piece of bag material in the flowablefood product.

Referring to FIG. 22 , the length of the flap 220 is less than thedistance from the bag 200 to the opening 426 when the probe 420 is inthe operating position. Accordingly, the flap 220 does not interferewith the flow of flowable food product through the opening 426.According to the exemplary embodiment shown, a width of the probe 420 isless than the distance from the lowest tooth 442 to the base 422 whenthe probe 420 is in the operating position.

As best seen in FIG. 21 , an aperture 448 is defined by the sidewall 444of the piercing portion 440. According to the embodiment shown, theaperture 448 is on the same side of the probe 420 as the first tooth 442a. The aperture 448 allows flowable food product to pass through thetaller portion of the sidewall 444 and thereby facilitates a morecomplete evacuation of flowable food product from the bag 200.

Referring to FIGS. 16-19 , the base 422 includes an upper wall 424through which opening 426 extends. A pair of rails 428, shown as leftrail 428 a and right trail 428 b, shown to extend along and down fromupper wall 424. The upper wall 424 and the pair of rails 428 at leastpartially define a passageway 430 to slidingly receive a slider 450 thatmoves between a first or closed position, shown for example in FIGS. 16and 17 , and a second or open position, shown for example in FIGS. 18and 19 .

As seen in FIGS. 21-25 , the interaction between the slider 450 and thebase 422 creates a shearing valve (e.g., scissor valve, etc.). Theslider 450 includes an upper surface 452 that defines an opening 454(e.g. passageway, conduit, etc.). The upper surface 452 of the slider450 mates against the upper wall 424 of the base 422 such that when theslider 450 is in the closed position the upper surface 452 blocks theopening 426 (see, e.g., FIG. 17 ), thereby preventing flowable foodproduct from being dispensed from the dispenser 100. When the slider 450is in the open position, the opening 454 of the slider 450 and theopening 426 of the probe 420 overlap (see, e.g., FIGS. 19 and 22 ),thereby allowing flowable food product to pass through the valve 400 andbe dispensed from the dispenser 100. According to the exemplaryembodiment shown, the valve 400 is oriented such that flowable foodproduct passes through the valve 400 by the force gravity, then fallsstraight down onto receiving products (e.g., chips, sausage, container,etc.) positioned in zone 102. According to an exemplary embodiment, therate of flow of flowable food product through the valve 400 may becontrolled by selecting the amount of overlap between opening 426 andopening 454. Advantageously, the shearing valve has reducedsusceptibility to being stuck open by the flowable food product, and theshearing valve creates a generally clean break in the flowable foodproduct, thereby reducing drips of the flowable food product from thedispenser 100. According to one embodiment, during manufacture andshipping, the slider 450 may be held in the closed position byperforated or breakable tabs (see, e.g., tabs 1163 in FIG. 40 ), therebycreating a seal to the bag 200. For example, the bag 200 may be shippedwith the slider 450 in the closed position and the fitment 410permanently coupled to the bag 200 such that the piercing portion 440remains sterile. According to such an embodiment, the breakable tabs maybe configured to break upon the first actuation of the valve 400. Thebreakable tabs may further provide evidence of tampering with the valve.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 18 , the rails 428 include longitudinal slots432 formed therein and extending in the direction of motion of theslider 450. The slider 450 includes at least one projection (e.g., tab,member, etc.), shown as finger 456, shown to extend out from the side ofthe slider 450. According to an exemplary embodiment, the finger 456 isconfigured to flex resiliently inward such that the fingers 456 may passinto the passageway 430 during assembly and then snap into the slots432. Importantly, cooperation between the fingers 456 and the slots 432partially retain the slider 450 in the passageway 430, therebypreventing inadvertent removal of the slider 450 from the base 422.Referring to FIG. 23 , the fingers 456 may engage the rear ends 434 ofthe slots 432. Referring to FIG. 24 , the slider 450 includes a shoulder458 that engages a narrowed portion of the passageway 430 defined by aforward wall 427. Accordingly, once the slider 450 is installed into theprobe 420, motion of the slider 450 is limited relative to the probe 420by hard stops. According to another embodiment, the slider assembly maybe reversed such that the fingers 456 stop against a forward end of theslots 432, and that the shoulder 458 engages a rear wall of the base422.

Referring to FIGS. 21 and 25 , according to the exemplary embodimentshown, sidewalls 460 of the slider 450 include an outwardly slopedportion 462 that mates with a complementary inwardly sloped portion 464of each of the rails 428. The interface of the sliding portions allowsthe slider 450 to slide relative to the base 422 while preventing theslider 450 from falling out of the bottom of the probe 420.

During operation, the button 156 is interconnected with the front of theslider 450 so that as the user actuates/pushes the button 156, theslider 450 is pushed from the closed position toward the open position,which causes the opening 426 and opening 454 to overlap, thereby openingthe valve 400. A spring (not shown) may be interconnected to the slider450, for example, exerting a force against a rear end of the slider 450,to provide a return force that moves the slider 450 from the openposition towards the closed position.

According the exemplary embodiment described, more costly components(e.g., spring, button, etc.) do not come in contact with the flowablefood product and therefore may be reusable. Preferably, one or morecomponents of the valve 400 (e.g., fitment 410, probe 420, and/or slider450) are formed of one or more compatible materials to facilitaterecycling of the valve 400.

Referring to FIGS. 26-27 , a third valve 500 is shown, according to anexemplary embodiment. The valve 500 includes a fitment 510, a probe 520,and a slider 550. The interaction of the slider 550 and the probe 520 issimilar to the interaction of the slider 450 and the probe 420 asdescribed above with respect to the valve 400. For example, the slider550 translates between a first or closed position, in which the opening526 (e.g. passageway, conduit, etc.) in the probe 520 is offset from theopening 554 (e.g. passageway, conduit, etc.) in the slider 550 (see,e.g., FIG. 27 ), and a second or open position, in which the opening 526and the opening 554 overlap, thereby allowing flowable food product toflow through the valve 500.

The probe 520 includes threads 522 configured to engage threads 516 onthe outward extending wall 514 of the fitment 510. As the probe 520 isadvanced (e.g., rotated, threaded, tightened, etc.) onto the fitment 510from a first or shipping position (see, e.g., FIGS. 26 and 27 ) toward asecond or operating position (now shown), a piercing portion 540 slicesopen the bag 200. Advancement of the probe 520 may be stopped at theoperating position by a flange 518 extending radially outward fromfitment sidewall 514. The piercing portion 540 is shown to have a singlecutting edge 542; however, according to other embodiments, the piercingportion 540 may have a plurality of teeth.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the length of advancement (i.e.,the distance between the shipping and operating positions) may beconfigured such that a portion of the piercing portion 540 remainsinside the fitment 510 below the bag 200, thereby allowing flowable foodproduct to flow down into (e.g., pour into) the valve 500 and therebyachieving a more complete evacuation of the bag 200. According to anexemplary embodiment, the pitch of the threads 516, 522 and the lengthof advancement may be configured such that the piercing portion 540forms a 180 degree to 270 degree cut in the bag 200 to form a U-shapedflap 220. According to a preferred embodiment, the pitch of the threads516, 522 and the length of advancement may be configured such that thelength of the flap 220 is less than the distance from the bag 200 to theopening 526, thereby preventing the flap 220 from interfering with flowof the flowable food product from through the valve 500.

The valve 500 may also include a pull tab 560. The pull tab 560 iscoupled to the fitment by perforated or breakable tabs 562, and keys 564engage pockets 524 on the probe 520. Accordingly, the probe 520 may bethreaded onto the fitment 510 until the probe 520 reaches a shippingposition (see, e.g., FIGS. 22 and 23 ) in which the keys 564 inhibitfurther rotation of the probe 520, preferably in either direction (i.e.,clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the fitment 510). When the bag200 is to be installed in the dispenser 100, the breakable tabs may bebroken and the pull tab 560 may be removed from the fitment 510, and theprobe 520 may be advanced relative to the fitment 510 to a second oroperational position (not shown) in which the bag 200 has been rippedopen by the piercing portion 540.

According to other embodiments, the valve 500 may not be shippedintegrally with the fitment 510, instead being threaded onto the fitment510 after a protective cap has been removed from the fitment. Accordingto other embodiments, the fitment may be a conventional fitment havingannular ribs rather than threads. In such embodiments, rather thanthreads 522, the probe may include inwardly extending tangs or a ridgethat permit the probe to be pushed onto the fitment and engage theannular ribs. In such an embodiment, the piercing action may be moresimilar to the push-to-pierce action as described with respect to valve400.

Referring to FIGS. 28-30 , a fourth valve 800 is shown, according to anexemplary embodiment. The valve 800 includes a fitment 810, a probe 820,and a slider 850. The interaction of the slider 850 and the probe 820 issimilar to the interaction of the slider 450 and the probe 420 asdescribed above with respect to the valve 400. For example, the slider850 translates between a first or closed position, in which the opening826 (e.g. passageway, conduit, etc.) in the probe 820 is offset from theopening 854 (e.g. passageway, conduit, etc.) in the slider 850 (see,e.g., FIG. 30 ), and a second or open position, in which the opening 826and the opening 854 overlap, thereby allowing flowable food product toflow through the valve 800. Some of the differences between the valve400 and the valve 800 are described below; however, it is understoodthat elements of each valve may be combined into other embodiments.

The length of the sidewall 814 of the fitment 810 is short relative tothe length of the piercing portion 840, which enables the piercingportion 840 to extend farther into the bag 200 during the initialpuncture, which in turn enables a cleaner cut of the bag 200. Extendingfurther into the bag 200 further enables a larger aperture 848, whichincreases the flow area of flowable food product and reducesrestriction. Reduced flow restriction facilitates gravity forced flow ofthe flowable food product through the dispenser 100, 700. A beam 841 mayextend across the aperture 848 to provide structural rigidity andsupport for the teeth 842.

According to the embodiment shown, the probe 820 and the slider 850 maybe shipped separately from the bag 200 and then assembled prior toinstallation into the dispenser 100, 700. Accordingly, in contrast tovalve 400, the valve 800 has only rib 847 to engage a groove 818 in thefitment 810, which secures the probe 820 in the operating position.According to another embodiment, the probe 820 and slider 850 could beheld in a shipping position by a pull tab (e.g., pull tab 560 describedwith respect to valve 500).

The piercing portion 840 of the probe 820 includes a plurality of teeth842 configured to open (e.g., pierce, puncture, cut, rip, etc.) the bag200 when the probe 820 is moved from the shipping position to theoperating position. As described with respect to valve 400, the heightsand orientations of the teeth 842, 842 a facilitate opening of the bag200. The probe 820 further includes guide (e.g., last, rear, forward,etc.) teeth 842 b spaced apart from the first tooth 842 a, which(referring to FIG. 29 ) inhibits misalignment of the probe 820 and thefitment 810, thereby facilitating insertion of the probe 820 into thefitment 810. As shown, the guide teeth 842 b are on the opposite side ofthe piercing portion from the first tooth 842 a, which helps align theprobe 820 to the fitment, thereby keeping the teeth 842 at the properorientation relative to the bag 200 to facilitate opening of the bag200. The guide teeth 842 b are shown to be shorter than the first fewteeth 842, 842 a, thereby allowing point pressure to build on thoseteeth 842 during insertion of the probe 820 to initiate opening of thebag 200. The guide teeth 842 b define a gap 849 that allows flowablefood product to flow into the probe 820 to the opening 826.

Referring briefly to FIG. 30 , a detent 853 is formed on the uppersurface of the slider 850. At the start of the opening stroke, thedetent 853 creates a slight interference with a tang 815 on the rearside of the fitment 810. The interference at the start of the strokeinhibits the slider 850 from being inadvertently moved to the openposition (i.e., inhibits the valve 800 from being inadvertently opened),for example, when force is exerted onto the probe 820 to snap the rib847 into the groove 818. As shown, the detent 853 extends above theupper surface 852 and interfaces with the tang 815 above the uppersurface 852 (e.g., above a plane 870 where the slider 850 and the probe820 interface). According to one embodiment, the tang 815 does notextend below the upper surface 852. According to another embodiment, theinterference between the detent 853 and the tang 815 is above the plane870, thus keeping the tang 815 from pushing the slider 850 apart fromthe probe 820, which could cause a leak of the flowable food product.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 29 , the slider 850 includes a forward wall864, which defines a gap or slot 866. The rear end of the plunger 751includes a flange 758 that at least partially defines a groove or slot759 that creates a matching feature (e.g., tongue in groove, etc.) whichmates or engages with the slot 866. The slot 866 is shown to be avertically oriented arch or bullet shape, which facilitates the forwardwall 864 straddling the plunger 751 during installation of the bag 200into the dispenser 700, which reduces or eliminates the need tomanipulate (e.g., position, reposition, etc.) the valve 800 duringinstallation. As shown, the forward wall 864 extends down from the restof the slider 850 to enable a longer slot 866, which enables a widerslot 866 and allows the slot 866 to engage the slot 759 before the restof the slider 850 seats, thereby facilitating alignment and installationof the bag 200. When the valve 800 is installed into the dispenser 700,the plunger 751 may push the slider 850 from the closed position towardthe open position, and the flange 758 of the plunger 751 may pull theslider 850 from the open position toward the closed position. The longerforward wall 864 provides more area, which better distributes loads andstresses between the plunger 751 and the slider 850, thereby improvingdurability and quality. Further, the elongated slot 866 and forward wall864 allow the plunger 751 to move the slider 850 even if the valve 800is not fully seated into the dispenser 700. According to one embodiment,the slider 850 may include a rear wall 868 that is substantially similarto the forward wall 864. The rear wall 868 may allow a rear locatedactuator (e.g., a solenoid, etc.) to pull the slider 850 toward the openposition and to push the slider 850 toward a closed position.

Referring to FIGS. 31-34 , a sixth valve 1600 is shown, according to anexemplary embodiment. The valve 1600 includes a fitment 1610, a probe1620, and a slider 1650. The interaction of the probe 1620 and thefitment 1610 is similar to the interaction of the probe 850 and thefitment 810 as described above with respect to the valve 800. Forexample, the length of the sidewall 1614 of the fitment 1610 is shortrelative to the length of the piercing portion 1640, which enables thepiercing portion 1640 to extend farther into the bag 200 during theinitial puncture, which in turn enables a cleaner cut of the bag 200.The valve 1600 is shown to have only rib 1647 to engage a groove 1618 inthe fitment 1610, which secures the probe 1620 in the operatingposition. It should be understood that the rib 1647 shown engages agroove 1618 not seen on the inside of the fitment 1610, and that a rib1647 (not shown) on the opposite side of the probe 1620 engages thegroove 1618 shown on the inside of the fitment 1610. It is furthercontemplated that the rib 1647 and the groove 1618 may be switched suchthat the groove is located on the probe, and the rib is located on thefitment.

The piercing portion 1640 of the probe 1620 includes a plurality ofteeth 1642 configured to open (e.g., pierce, puncture, cut, rip, etc.)the bag 200 when the probe 1620 is moved from the shipping position tothe operating position. As described with respect to valve 800, theheights and orientations of the teeth 1642, 1642 a facilitate opening ofthe bag 200, and the guide (e.g., last, rear, forward, etc.) teeth 1642b spaced apart from the first tooth 1642 a inhibit misalignment of theprobe 1620 and the fitment 1610, thereby facilitating insertion of theprobe 1620 into the fitment 1610. As shown, the guide teeth 1642 b arerounded or blunted relative to the other teeth 1642 or guide teeth 842b. Blunting the guide teeth 1642 b may reduce accidental punctures ofthe bag 200 or of other objects.

The probe 1620 is shown to include a span 1629 that extends between andinterconnects the sidewalls 1628 of the base 1622. The span 1629prevents the sidewalls of the base 1622 from flexing outward orlaterally away from the slider 1650, thereby preventing flowable foodproduct from leaking down the sides of the slider 1650. The span 1629also helps to retain the slider 1650 in the passageway 1630. Forexample, the span 1629 prevents the slider 1650 from exiting out of thebottom of the base 1622 of the probe 1620.

Referring to FIG. 32 , the slider 1650 is shown, according to anexemplary embodiment. The slider 1650 includes an upper surface 1652 andsidewalls 1660 extending down from the upper surface 1652. An opening1654 passes through the upper surface 1652 and is configured to allowflowable food product to pass therethrough when the slider 1650 is in anopen positions. Referring briefly to FIG. 33 , the region of the slider1650 that defines the opening 1654 may be sloped or inclined therebycreating a narrower or sharper surface 1655 where the opening 1654passes through the upper surface 1652. The sloped or inclined regionhelps prevent flowable food product from contacting the bore sidewall ofopening 1654, thereby reducing clogging, dripping, or accumulation ofdried flowable food product. The narrower or sharper surface 1655facilitates a cleaner cut of the stream 250 of flowable food product,thereby reducing clogging, dripping, or accumulation of dried flowablefood product. The slider 1650 includes at least one projection (e.g.,tab, member, etc.), shown as finger 1656, shown to extend out from theupper surface 1652 of the slider 1650. As will be discussed more below,the finger 1656 helps to retain the slider 1650 in the probe 1620. Theslider 1650 further includes a detent 1653 formed on the upper surface1652, similar to that of the detent 853.

Referring to FIG. 33 , a cross-section of the valve 1600 is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. According to the embodiment shown,the tang 1615 extends downward such that a bottom end of the tang 1615is at an elevation between the top of the detent 1653 and the uppersurface 1652 of the slider 1650. Accordingly, at the start of theopening stroke, the detent 1653 creates a slight interference with atang 1615 on the rear side of the fitment 1610. The interference at thestart of the stroke inhibits the slider 1650 from being inadvertentlymoved to the open position (i.e., inhibits the valve 1600 from beinginadvertently opened). However, because the bottom of the tang 1615 isabove the upper surface 1652 thus keeping the tang 1615 from pushing theslider 1650 apart from the probe 1620, which could cause a leak of theflowable food product.

Further referring to FIG. 34 , according to an exemplary embodiment, thefinger 1656 is configured to flex resiliently inward such that thefinger 1656 may pass into the passageway 1630 during assembly and thensnap into the slot 1632 formed in the bottom of the upper wall 1624 ofthe base 1622 of the probe 1620. The finger 1656 and the slot 1632cooperate to partially retain the slider 1650 in the passageway 1630,thereby preventing inadvertent removal of the slider 1650 from the base1622 in a first direction. When the slider 1650 is moved to the openposition, the finger 1656 may engage the rear ends 1634 of the slots1632. Locating the finger 1656 and the slot 1632 generally above theslider 1650 may avoid buildup of leaked flowable food product on thefinger 1656 or in the slot 1632. Referring to FIGS. 32 and 34 , theslider 1650 includes a shoulder 1658 that engages a narrowed portion ofthe passageway 1630 defined by a forward wall 1627, thereby preventinginadvertent removal of the slider 1650 from the base 1622 in a seconddirection. Accordingly, once the slider 1650 is installed into the probe1620, motion of the slider 1650 is limited relative to the probe 1620 byhard stops. According to another embodiment, the slider assembly may bereversed such that the finger 1656 stops against a forward end of theslot 1632, and that the shoulder 1658 engages a rear wall of the base1622.

One or more guiderails 1667 may be formed on the inner surface(s) of thesidewall(s) 1628 of the base 1622. The guiderails 1667 support theslider 1650 in a lateral direction and help guide the slider 1650between the open and closed positions without binding. The sidewalls1628 may be formed at a draft angle to facilitate manufacturing (e.g.,casting, molding, etc.). Because the guiderails 1667 have a smallersurface area, the guiderails 1667 may be formed without a draft angle(i.e. zero draft, approximately zero draft, etc.), even though thesidewalls 1628 may have or require a draft angle. Accordingly, theguiderails 1667 may provide a consistent sliding surface for the slider1650 and reducing wobble (e.g., shimmy, etc.) and/or binding of theslider 1650 relative to the base 1622.

Referring to FIGS. 35-37 , a dispenser 600 and components thereof areshown according to an exemplary embodiment. The dispenser 600 includes aframe 610 supporting a front housing 660 and a rear housing 670.According to an exemplary embodiment, the frame 610 is configured tosupport the other components of the dispenser 600. The frame 610 may beformed of a single piece of material, for example, a single piece ofcast metal (e.g., aluminum, etc.) or injection molded plastic. Accordingto other embodiments, the frame 610 may be assembled from a plurality ofsub-components. For example, the frame 610 may include a base 612configured to rest upon a surface (e.g., top, bar, table, etc.) and anupper portion 614 that is supported by the base 612 and configured to atleast partially support the rear housing 670 and the front housing 660.A zone 602, generally defined below the front housing 660 and/or frame610 and above the base 612 of the frame 610, allows for receivingproducts (e.g., sausage, chips, bowls, etc.) to be placed in appropriateproximity to the dispenser 600 to receive the flowable food product.According to an exemplary embodiment, the frame 610 is configured to befreestanding, that is, it does not rely upon the front housing 660 orthe rear housing 670 provide support to the frame 610.

The frame 610 includes a top rail 618 and a lower rail 620, the lowerrail 620 configured to support a pan, shown as bottom pan 630. Forexample, the bottom pan 630 may couple to or lean against projections,studs, or bosses 622.

The bottom pan 630 may include one or more thermally conductive (e.g.,metallic, etc.) walls and one or more heating elements coupled to one ormore of the walls. As shown, the bottom pan 630 includes a bottom wall634 defining an opening 636. As shown, the opening 636 is configured toreceive the fitment 210 of the bag 200. A sloped wall 638 extendsupwardly and rearwardly from the bottom wall 634. The incline of thesloped wall 638 promotes the flow of the flowable food product in thebag 200 down toward the bottom wall 634, opening 636, and the fitment210 and the valve, thereby causing a more complete evacuation of the bag200. The bottom pan 630 further includes sidewalls 640, shown as leftsidewall 640 a and right sidewall 640 b, and transitional walls 642,shown as left transitional wall 642 a and right transitional wall 642 b.

In use, the bottom pan 630 conducts heat from heating elements coupledto the bottom pan 630, through the walls 634, 638, 640, 642 through thebag 200, and into the flowable food product. Using a conductive heattransfer method provides a more efficient and consistent temperature inthe flowable food product as compared to convection heating used intypical flowable food product dispensers. That is, the lag of heatingair which heats the food product makes controlling the temperature moredifficult than the more direct response in the food product achieved byconductive heating. Further, rather than approximating the temperatureof the flowable food product from the temperature of the air in thedispenser, a temperature sensor located on one of the walls of thebottom pan 630 in direct contact with the bag 200 obtains a moreaccurate temperature measurement of the flowable food product. Byplacing the temperature sensor near the opening 636 (e.g. on the bottomwall 634), a measurement of the next serving of flowable food product tobe dispensed may be taken. According to another embodiment, the bottompan 630 may include multiple heating elements that may be independentlycontrolled, thereby allowing different portions of the flowable foodproduct to be heated differently, and thereby facilitating a more evendistribution of temperature through the flowable food product.

The bottom pan 630 is preferably configured to maximize the contact areabetween the bottom pan 630 and the bag 200. Vertical sidewalls 640 andthe transitional walls 642 increase the surface area of the bottom pan630 thereby increasing the contact area between the bottom pan 630 andthe bag 200. According to another embodiment (not shown), the bottom pan630 may include waves or folds (e.g. “W”, “M” shapes, etc.) to increasethe surface area contact between the bottom pan 630 and the bag 200,thereby facilitating more efficient, more consistent, and faster heatingof the flowable food product. The bottom pan 630 is preferablyconfigured to minimize the distance between the flowable food productand the bottom pan 630. For example, the bag 200 may be hung or orientedvertically in a relatively tall narrow cavity, thereby increasing thesurface area relative to volume. According to another example, the bag200 may be laid substantially flat, also thereby increasing the surfacearea relative to volume. According to the embodiment shown, thedispenser 600 includes a second pan, shown as top pan 644. Top pan 644may include one or more thermally conductive (e.g., metallic, etc.)walls and one or more heating elements coupled to the one or more of thewalls. As shown, the top pan 644 has a bottom surface 646 configured tocontact an upper surface the bag 200 when the bag 200 is in an installedposition. Accordingly, the heated top pan 644 halves the distance fromthe flowable food product to the heat source. That is, without the toppan 644, the top of the flowable food product may be a distance X fromthe bottom pan 630. However, with a heated top pan 644 contacting theupper surface of the bag 200, the furthest distance from the flowablefood product to one of the heated pans 630, 644 is approximately X/2,i.e., approximately the distance from the center of the flowable foodproduct to the bottom pan 630 or the top pan 644. Top pan 644 mayfurther be configured to support a second bag 200′ (not shown) offlowable food product. Accordingly, the second bag 200′ of flowable foodproduct may be preheated while the first bag 200 of flowable foodproduct is being used or preheated.

The rear housing 670 is supported by the frame 610 and at leastpartially defines a cavity 672 in which bottom pan 630 and the bag 200reside when the bag 200 is in an installed position. The rear housing670 prevents inadvertent contact by the operator with hot components ofthe dispenser 600. Rear housing 670 may be formed of any suitablydurable material, for example, a low-cost, lightweight plastic.

The front housing 660 is also supported by the frame 610. According toan exemplary embodiment, the front housing 660 may be coupled to theframe 610 via a hinge 662. As shown, the front housing 660 may rotatebetween a first or closed position (shown, for example, in FIG. 35 )that encloses the dispenser 600 and a second position or open position(shown, for example in FIG. 36 ) that allows for access to the cavity672 for loading and unloading of bags 200, 200′ to and from thedispenser 600. According to an exemplary embodiment, the second positionmay be one in which the front housing 660 is on top of, and at leastpartially supported by, the rear housing 670. Such rotation allows foropening and closing of the dispenser 600 when the dispenser 600 islocated on a crowded surface which may inhibit opening the front housing660 to a left or right side. According to other embodiments, the hinge662 may be coupled to the frame 610 such that the front housing 660 ofthe dispenser 600 rotates open toward the left side or the right side ofthe dispenser. The front housing 660 may support an actuator, shown as abutton 656, configured to receive an actuating force and/or motion froma user and transfer that force or motion to a valve. A spring 658 may belocated between a slider 450, 550 (of one of the valves 400, 500described above) and the frame 610. The spring 658 is configured toprovide a return force to urge the slider 450, 550 toward the closedposition. As shown in FIG. 36 , the dispenser 600 may include a portioncontrol system 1200, an exemplary embodiment of which is described inmore detail below.

Referring to FIGS. 38-41 , a dispenser 900 and components thereof areshown according to an exemplary embodiment. The dispenser 900 includes aframe 910 supporting a front housing 960 and a rear housing 970.According to an exemplary embodiment, the frame 910 is configured tosupport the other components of the dispenser 900. The frame 910 mayinclude a base 912 configured to rest upon a surface (e.g., top, bar,table, etc.) and an upper portion 914 that is supported by the base 912and configured to at least partially support the rear housing 970 andthe front housing 660. The front housing 960 and the rear housing 970have large two-dimensional surfaces (i.e., surfaces having asubstantially continuous cross-section), which facilitates applicationof a sheet of graphics thereto. A zone 902, generally defined below thefront housing 960 and/or frame 910 and above the base 912 of the frame910, allows for receiving products (e.g., sausage, chips, bowls, etc.)to be placed in appropriate proximity to the dispenser 900 to receivethe flowable food product. The dispenser 900 includes a button 956, theactuation of which causes the dispenser 900 to dispense flowable foodproduct. The dispenser 900 is generally similar to the dispenser 600shown and described above. Some of the differences between the dispenser600 and the dispenser 900 are described below; however, it is understoodthat elements of each dispenser may be combined into other embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 39 and 40 , perspective views of the dispenser 900are shown without the front housing 960 or button 956, and without thefront housing 960 or top pan 644, respectively. The front housing 960rotates about a hinge 962 from a closed position (shown in FIG. 38 ) toan open position. The hinge 962 is located farther rearward than thehinge 662 of the dispenser 600, which provides a clearer, unobstructedpath for a user to load the bag 200. The front housing 960 is coupled toan eccentric arm 964, which allows the hinge 962 to be located under therear housing 970. The button 956 and the plunger 951 are coupled to thefront housing 960 and rotate with the front housing 960. The dispenser900 includes a top pan 944 that is interconnected to the frame 910 via ahinge 966. The hinge 966 is located forward of the hinge 962, whichenables the top pan 944 to be rotated from an operating position (shownin FIG. 39 ) to an open position that is self-supportingly, stably open,thereby providing an unobstructed path for a user to load the bag 200into the bottom pan 930.

Referring to FIG. 41 , the top pan 944 is shown to include a heatingelement 945 in the bottom wall thereof. The bottom pan 930 is shown toinclude a heating element 931 in the sloped wall 938. According to oneembodiment, the heating elements 931, 945 may be coupled to a surface ofthe pans 940, 944. As shown in top pan 944, the heating element 945 maybe formed or sealed within the pan 944. As shown in bottom pan 930, theheating element 931 may be layered between two shells of the pan 930. Asdiscussed above with respect to the dispenser 600, having heatingelements 931, 945 below and above the bag 200 in the bottom pan 930increases heat transfer rates into the flowable food product andprovides a more consistent temperature through the flowable food productin the bag 200, which enables a bag 200 to be raised from roomtemperature to operating temperature more quickly.

The bottom pan 930 has a bottom wall 934 and a sloped wall 938 extendingupward and rearward from the bottom wall 934. The bottom wall 934defines an opening 936 for receiving the fitment 210 in a downwardfacing direction. Orienting fitment 210 downwards facilitates evacuationof the flowable food product from the bag 200. The sloped wall 938 has asteep angle to facilitate gravity forced evacuation. The internalsurfaces of the bottom pan 930 are smooth and flush to facilitatecleaning of the pan 930.

Referring to FIGS. 39 and 41 , the top pan 944 includes a front wall 947that includes a latch 948. The latch 948 engages (e.g., clips, snaps,etc.) the bottom wall 934 of the bottom pan 930. Engaging the top pan944 to the bottom pan 930 keeps the top pan 944 in contact with the bag200 in the bottom pan even if there is not a bag in the top pan 944,which facilitates heat transfer from the top pan 944 into the bag 200 inthe bottom pan 930. Further, latching the top pan 944 prevents the bag200 from sliding down to the bottom of the bottom pan 930, which maycreate folds in the bag that may reduce the evacuation efficiency of theflowable food product. Further, latching the top pan 944 to the bottompan 930 helps to seal off the interior of the unit from the flowablefood product. Any food product that my leak from the bag 200 may becaptured in the bottom pan 930 or directed through the opening 936 inthe bottom wall 934, thereby preventing the flowable food product fromcontacting or dirtying other parts of the dispenser 900.

Referring to FIGS. 42 and 43 , a dispenser 1000 is shown according to anexemplary embodiment. The dispenser 1000 is a side-by-side, dual outletdispenser. The dispenser 1000 includes a frame 1010. The frame 1010 isshown to be approximately the size of frames 610, 910 and approximatelytwice the width of frames 110, 710. Internally, the dispenser 1000includes side-by-side pan assemblies 130, 730. As shown, the dispenser1000 includes a first button 1056 a, the actuation of which causesflowable food product to be dispensed from a first outlet 1001 a. Thedispenser further includes a second button 1056 b, the actuation ofwhich causes flowable food product to be dispensed from a first outlet1001 b. According to one embodiment, the dispenser 1000 may be used suchthat both outlets 1001 are operable, dispensing the same or different(e.g., type, flavor, etc.) flowable food products. According to anotherembodiment, one of the first and second sides may be operable while theother of the first and second sides maintains the flowable food productat a holding temperature. For example, the food product in the secondside may be raised to the operating temperature when it is determinedthat the bag 200 on the first side is nearing empty (e.g., below apredetermined level, below a level equal to the usage rate times thetime required to raise the second bag to the operating temperature,etc.). When the first bag is evacuated, then dispenser 1000 may then beset such that the second side is operable. The bag in the first side maybe replaced and raised to the holding temperature while the dispenseroperates off of the second side. The holding temperature may be, forexample, approximately 100° F. which is warm enough for cheese to flow,but cool enough so that the cheese does not brown.

Referring to FIG. 43 , the dispenser 1000 includes a pan assembly 1030.The pan assembly 1030 includes a body 1032 that is shown to include abottom wall 1034, shown as a first bottom wall portion 1034 a and asecond bottom wall portion 1034 b. The first bottom wall portion 1034 acorresponds to the first outlet 1001 a, and the second bottom wallportion 1034 b corresponds to the second outlet 1001 b. The first andsecond bottom wall portions 1034 a, 1034 b are separated by a wall 1035(e.g., divider, dividing wall, center wall, dam, saddle, etc.). The wall1035 provides lateral support for each of the bags 200 in the dispenser1000 to help hold the bags 200 in a substantially upright positions. Thewall 1035 may include one or more heating elements (e.g., heatingelements 144, 744) to help heat the flowable food product. Providingheating elements in the wall 1035 and in the outer walls of the body1032 improves the heating of the flowable food product by heating thebag 200 from both sides, as discussed above. According to variousembodiments, the pan assembly 1030 may include an opening (e.g., opening136, 736), rear sloped wall (e.g., sloped wall 138, 738), and/or a frontsloped wall (e.g., front sloped wall 739) in relation to one, each, orboth of the first and second bottom wall portions 1034 a, 1034 b.

Referring to FIGS. 44-45 , a fifth valve 1100 is shown, according to anexemplary embodiment. The valve 1100 includes a fitment 1110, a body1120, and a slider 1150. The fitment 1110 may be a conventional fitmentin which a shipping cap is removed and the bag 200 is punctured prior tocoupling the body 1120 to the fitment 1110. When the body 1120 iscoupled to the fitment 1110, fingers 1123 having a barb 1125 engage(e.g., snap, clip, grab, secure) a flange 1116 on the fitment 1110. Thefingers 1123 may be configured to break if a person attempts to removethe body 1120 from the fitment 1110, thereby preventing reassembly andreducing the possibility of tampering with the bag 200 or flowable foodproduct therein. The engagement of the fingers 1123 and the fitment 1110allows the body 1120 to rotate relative to the bag 200, thus allowingthe bag 200 to be rotated after the body 1120 is installed into thedispenser 900, thereby facilitating installation of the bag 200 into thedispenser.

The interaction of the slider 1150 and the body 1120 is similar to theinteraction of the slider 450 and the probe 420 as described above withrespect to the valve 400. For example, the slider 1150 translatesbetween a first or closed position, in which the opening 1126 in thebody 1120 is offset from the opening 1154 in the slider 1150, and asecond or open position, in which the opening 1126 and the opening 1154overlap (see, e.g., FIG. 45 ), thereby allowing flowable food product toflow through the valve 1100.

Referring to FIG. 45 , the body 1120 may include perforated or breakawaytabs 1163. The tabs 1163 may hold the slider 1150 in a closed positionduring manufacture and shipping, thereby preventing accidental openingof the valve 1100. By holding the slider 1150 in the closed position,the tabs 1163 enable the valve 1100 to be used as a seal to the bag 200,thereby allowing the bag 200 to be sterilely pre-punctured duringmanufacturing. According to such an embodiment, the breakable tabs maybe configured to break upon the first actuation of the valve 400. Thebreakable tabs may further provide evidence of tampering with the valve.Note that in FIG. 45 , the tabs 1163 are shown to intersect the slider1150 because the tabs 1163 would have broken away when the slider 1150was moved to the open position shown in FIG. 45 .

Referring to FIG. 46 , a schematic diagram of a portion control system1200 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The dispensers 100,700, 900, 1000 are described above as being manually actuated. However,it is contemplated that the dispensers may be electrically actuated. Asshown, a fitment 210 is coupled to a bag 200 and is received in anopening 1236 of a dispenser. A valve probe or body 1220 is coupled tothe fitment 210, and a slider 1250 is coupled to the valve body 1220 asdescribed with respect to the valves above. For example, the slider 1250moves between a first or closed position, in which the opening 1226 inthe body 1220 is offset from the opening 1254 in the slider 1250, and asecond or open position, in which the opening 1226 and the opening 1254overlap (see, e.g., FIG. 46 ), thereby allowing flowable food product toflow from the bag 200 through the valve. While the portion controlsystem 1200 is described with respect to a slider valve, it iscontemplated that the portion control system 1200 may be used with anyother valve (e.g., valve 300, etc.).

The portion control system 1200 includes an actuator (e.g., motor,stepper motor, electric actuator, etc.), shown as solenoid 1257. Thesolenoid 1257 is operably coupled to the first plunger 1251 such thatwhen the solenoid 1257 is energized, the first plunger 1251 moves fromthe closed position toward the open position, in turn moving the slider1250 from the closed position toward the open position. A second plunger1252 is shown to be located on the opposite side of the slider 1250 fromthe first plunger 1251. As the slider 1250 moves toward the openposition, it pushes the second plunger 1252, which compresses a spring1255. When the opening force is reduced or removed from the firstplunger 1251 (e.g., when the solenoid 1257 is de-energized), the spring1255 pushes the slider 1250 towards the closed position. According toone embodiment, the first plunger 1251 may include a return spring andengage the slider 1250 (see, e.g., plunger 751 shown in FIG. 6 ), inwhich case, the portion control system 1200 may not include a secondplunger 1252. According to another embodiment, the portion controlsystem 1200 may not include a first plunger 1251, instead having thesecond plunger 1252 coupled to the slider 1250 so as to pull the slider1250 toward the open position, in which case the solenoid 1257 would beoperably coupled to the second plunger 1252.

The solenoid 1257 may be operably connected to a button (e.g., button756, button 956, etc.) on the dispenser. For example, the button mayactuate a switch, which in turn causes the solenoid 1257 to energize.According to another embodiment, the solenoid 1257 may be controlled byprocessing electronics 1406.

To determine the amount of flowable food product dispensed from thedispenser one may multiply the flow rate (i.e., volume per time) by theamount of time that the flowable food product is dispensed. The flowrate may be calculated by the velocity of the stream 250 of flowablefood product being dispensed times a cross-sectional area of the stream250. The applicants have determined that velocity of the stream 250 isnot simply a gravitational acceleration calculation, but a function ofthe pressure of the flowable food product in the bag 200 (which in turnis a function of the density and the height of the flowable food productin the bag) and viscosity of the flowable food product (which in turn isa function of the type of flowable food product (e.g., cheese, chili,etc.) and temperature). Accordingly, the portion control system 1200 andprocessing electronics 1406 are configured to determine and/or control,among other things, the amount of flowable food product being dispensedfrom the dispenser.

The portion control system 1200 further includes a trap 1280 configuredto determine the velocity of the stream 250 of dispensed flowable foodproduct. The trap 1280 includes a first emitter (e.g., laser, light,etc.), shown as first LED 1282 a sending a first beam 1284 a toward afirst receiver 1286 a. The trap 1280 includes a second emitter (e.g.,laser, light, etc.), shown as second LED 1282 b sending a second beam1284 b toward a second receiver 1286 b. As shown, the first beam 1284 aand the second beam 1284 b pass directly underneath the opening 1226,both substantially perpendicular (e.g., substantially horizontal) to thestream 250 of dispensed flowable food product, and the second beam 1284b a predetermined distance 1288 below the first beam 1284 a.

As the flowable food product is dispensed, the stream 250 passes throughthe first beam 1284 a, thereby blocking the first beam 1284 a fromstriking the first receiver 1286 a. When the first receiver 1286 a doesnot receive the first beam 1284 a, the first receiver 1286 a sends afirst timing signal to processing electronics 1406. As the stream 250continues to fall, the stream 250 passes through the second beam 1284 b,thereby blocking the second beam 1284 b from striking the secondreceiver 1286 b. When the second receiver 1286 b does not receive thesecond beam 1284 b, the second receiver 1286 b sends a second timingsignal to processing electronics 1406. The velocity of the stream 250may be determined from the predetermined distance 1288 between the firstbeam 1284 a and the second beam 1284 b divided by the temporaldifference between the first timing signal and the second timing signal.

Referring to FIGS. 46-48 , the cross-sectional area of the stream may bedetermined in various ways according to various embodiments. Accordingto the embodiment shown in FIG. 46 , the cross-sectional area of thestream 250 may be estimated to equal the area of the lesser (orprojected overlap) of the opening 1226 and the opening 1254. Accordingto another embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the stream 250 may bepredetermined through empirical observation to be a value slightly lessthan the area of the lesser (or projected overlap) of the opening 1226and the opening 1254. According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 47 , acamera may store video or sequential images 1203 of the area below theopenings 1226, 1254. Processing electronics 1406 may rasterize thesequential images 1203 and determine diameter 252 of the stream 250. Therasterized image 1203 may also be used by the processing electronics1406 to determine a diameter the velocity of the stream 250 based on thedistance travelled by the stream 250 over the period of time betweensequential images 1203. According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 48 ,the trap 1280 may include an emitter 1282 providing a substantiallyhorizontal array (e.g., fan, spread, plurality of beams, sector, etc.)of light to a plurality of receivers 1286. The array of light may beformed, for example by a prism or lens 1283. A dimension (e.g., width,diameter, etc.) of the stream 250 may be determined from the number ofthe plurality of receivers 1286 that do not receive the light emittedfrom the emitter 1282. According to another embodiment, the plurality ofreceivers 1286 may be oriented in a vertical array, which may be used todetermine the velocity of the stream 250 based on the rate at which thereceivers 1286 are blocked. According to another embodiment, atwo-dimensional array (i.e., an array having both vertical andhorizontal components) of receivers 1286 may be used to determine both adimension and velocity of the stream 250.

Referring to FIG. 49 , a flowchart of a process 1300 for dispensingflowable food product from a dispenser is shown according to anexemplary embodiment. The process 1300 includes the steps of receiving aselection from a user input device (e.g., button; button 156, 656, 756,956, 1056 a, 1056 b; switch; touchscreen, etc.) (step 1302), causing thevalve to open (step 1306), starting a timer (step 1308), and determininga flow rate of the dispensed flowable food product (step 1310). Theprocess 1300 may include the step of causing an operation to beannunciated (step 1304). According to one embodiment, the process 1300may determine if the user input device has been actuated for greaterthan a predetermined period of time (e.g., long hold, continuous hold,etc.) (step 1312). If yes, the valve remains open (step 1314). Theprocess 1300 includes the steps of determining a time required todispense the selection based on the determined flow rate (step 1316) anddetermining whether the elapsed time is greater than the determined timefor dispensing the selection (step 1318). If yes, the valve closes (step1320). In an embodiment in which the operation is annunciated, theannunciation is ceased (step 1322).

To facilitate understanding, an exemplary embodiment of the process 1300will be described with respect to the portion control system 1200 andprocessing electronics 1406. The dispenser 100, 600, 700, 900, 1000 mayinclude one or more buttons 156, 656, 756, 956, 1056 a, 1056 b. Forexample, the dispenser may include a plurality of buttons indicatingdifferent portion sizes (e.g., small, medium, large, sausage, nachos,volume, etc.). The processing electronics 1406 receive the userselection and, in response, may cause operation of the dispenser to beannunciated to a user. For example, a LED on the button may illuminateto indicate the selection was received. The processing electronics 1406cause the valve to open (e.g., by energizing the solenoid 1257) andbegin a timer. The processing electronics 1406 may be configured todifferentiate between the length of time that the button is depressed.For example, a short press may cause a portion-controlled dispensing(e.g., automatic mode), while a continuously held press may causeflowable food product to be dispensed as long as the button is depressed(e.g., manual mode). According to various embodiments, the LED may flashwhen in automatic mode, may be constant in manual mode, or vice versa.For a portion-controlled dispensing, the processing electronics 1406determines the flow rate of the flowable food product being dispensed(e.g., using one of the embodiments of the portion control system 1200described above) and determines the time required to dispense theselection based on the flow rate and the portion size selected. When theelapsed time is greater than the time required to dispense theselection, the processing electronics 1406 cause the valve to close, forexample, by de-energizing the solenoid 1257. The LED may be turned offafter the valve is closed.

According to various embodiments, the processing electronics 1406 maysum the total amount of flowable food product dispensed from thedispenser over a period of time. For example, tallying the flow rate ofthe stream 250 times the time that the valve is open may provide arunning total of the volume dispensed. This tally may be reset when anew bag 200 is installed into the dispenser. The processing electronics1406 may then estimate how much food product is remaining in the bag200. The processing electronics 1406 may determine when a second bag200′ of flowable food product should be raised to an operatingtemperature and initiate causing the temperature rise or alert (e.g.,via light, sound, text message, email, etc.) an operator to beginwarming the second bag 200′. The processing electronics 1406 may use thetally to self-calibrate the portion control system 1200 and algorithmsof the processing electronics 1406. The processing electronics 1406 mayuse a tally to calculate an evacuation efficiency when the bag 200 isreplaced. A long-term tally may be used by an operator to identify ratesand trends (e.g., evening rush, weekend rush, in-game rush, etc.) ofdispenser use, which may be used to improve profitability.

Referring to FIG. 50 , a schematic block diagram of a control system1400 for a dispenser (e.g., dispenser 100, 600, 700, 900, 1000) isshown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The control system 1400 isshown to include a control circuit 1404, temperature sensors 1446, adisplay 1447, a user input device 1456, a solenoid 1457, a trap 1480,and a power supply 1498.

Referring to FIG. 51 , a detailed block diagram of a control circuit1404 of FIG. 50 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Thecontrol circuit 1404 is shown to include processing electronics 1406,which includes a memory 1420 and processor 1422. Processor 1422 may beor include one or more microprocessors, an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a circuit containing one or more processingcomponents, a group of distributed processing components, circuitry forsupporting a microprocessor, or other hardware configured forprocessing. According to an exemplary embodiment, processor 1422 isconfigured to execute computer code stored in memory 1420 to completeand facilitate the activities described herein. Memory 1420 can be anyvolatile or non-volatile memory device capable of storing data orcomputer code relating to the activities described herein. For example,memory 1420 is shown to include modules 1428-1438 which are computercode modules (e.g., executable code, object code, source code, scriptcode, machine code, etc.) configured for execution by processor 1422.When executed by processor 1422, processing electronics 1406 isconfigured to complete the activities described herein. Processingelectronics 1406 includes hardware circuitry for supporting theexecution of the computer code of modules 1428-1438. For example,processing electronics 1406 includes hardware interfaces (e.g., output1450) for communicating control signals (e.g., analog, digital) fromprocessing electronics 1406 to the control circuit 1404. Processingelectronics 1406 may also include an input 1455 for receiving, forexample, data/signals from the control circuit 1404, temperature datafrom sensors 1446, or timing signals from trap 1480, or for receivingdata or signals from other systems or devices.

Memory 1420 includes a memory buffer 1424 for receiving user input data,sensor data, timing data, etc., from the control circuit 1404. The datamay be stored in memory buffer 1424 until buffer 1424 is accessed fordata. For example, user interface module 1428, temperature controlmodule 1430, flow rate module 1434, or another process that utilizesdata from the control circuit 1404 may access buffer 1424. The datastored in memory 1420 may be stored according to a variety of schemes orformats. For example, the user input data may be stored in any suitableformat for storing information.

Memory 1420 further includes configuration data 1426. Configuration data1426 includes data relating to sensors 1146, display 1447, user inputdevice 1456, solenoid 1457, and trap 1480. For example, configurationdata 1426 may include sensor operational data, which may be data thattemperature control module 1430 can use to interpret sensor data fromcontrol circuit 1404. For example, configuration data 1426 may includevoltage to temperature curves. For example, configuration data 1426 mayinclude display operational data which may be data that user interfacemodule 1428 or annunciation module 1438 can interpret to determine howto command control circuit 1404 to operate a display 1447. For example,configuration data 1426 may include information regarding size,resolution, refresh rates, orientation, location, and the like.Configuration data 1426 may include touchscreen operational data whichmay be data that user interface module 1428 can use to interpret userinput data from memory buffer 1424. For example, configuration data 1426may include solenoid operational data, which may be data that valvecontrol module 1432 can interpret to determine how to command controlcircuit 1404 to operate a solenoid 1457. For example, configuration data1426 may include information regarding flow rate information, which maybe data that the flow rate module 1434 can use to interpret signals fromthe trap 1480.

Memory 1420 further includes a user interface module 1428, whichincludes logic for using user input data in memory buffer 1424 and/orsignals from control circuit 1404 to determine desired user responses.User interface module 1428 may be configured to interpret user inputdata to determine various buttons being pressed, button combinations,button sequences, touchscreen gestures (e.g., drag versus swipe versustap), the direction of gestures, and the relationship of these gesturesto icons. User interface module 1428 may include logic to provide inputconfirmation (e.g., via annunciation module 1438 and the display 1447)and to prevent unintended input.

Memory 1420 further includes a temperature control module 1430, whichincludes logic for interpreting data from temperature sensors 1446. Forexample, the temperature control module 1430 may be configured tointerpret signals from temperature sensors 1446 or memory buffer 1424,in conjunction with look up tables or curves from configuration data1426, to provide temperature data to the processor 1422 and othermodules. The temperature control module 1430 may include logic forheating the flowable food product, for maintaining the temperature ofthe flowable food product within operating parameters, and alertingother modules if the temperature of the flowable food product leavesoperating parameters.

Memory 1420 further includes a valve control module 1432, which includeslogic for controlling the flow control valves (e.g., valve 300, 400,500, 800, 1000). For example, valve control module 1432 may includelogic for processing user input from user interface module 1428 and flowrate data from flow rate module 1434 to provide commands to the solenoid1457 over the control circuit 1404.

Memory 1420 further includes a flow rate module 1434, which includeslogic for interpreting data from the trap 1480. For example, the flowrate module 1434 may be configured to interpret timing signals from thetrap 1480 or memory buffer 1424, in conjunction with look up tables orcurves from configuration data 1426, to provide timing, velocity, andstream dimension data to the processor 1422 and other modules. The flowrate module 1434 may include logic for calculating the velocity of thestream 250, the flow rate of the stream 250, and a tally of the volumedispensed.

Memory 1420 further includes a power module 1436, which includes logicfor controlling and interpreting signals from the power supply 1498. Forexample, the power module 1436 may include logic for handling a powerloss, interpreting data from the temperature control module 1430, andalerting other modules of a power loss or if the temperature of theflowable food product has likely left the operating parameters during apower loss. For example, the power module 1436 may include logic forproviding power to heating elements in the dispenser.

Memory 1420 further includes an annunciation module 1438, which includeslogic for controlling the display 1447 and/or any other lights orelectroacoustic transducers on the dispenser. For example, theannunciation module 1438 may be configured to interpret signals fromtemperature control module 1430, temperature sensors 1446, or memorybuffer 1424, in conjunction with look up tables or curves fromconfiguration data 1426, to determine how to command control circuit1404 to cause the display 1447 to display the temperature of theflowable food product. For example, the annunciation module 1438 may beconfigured to interpret signals from the user interface module 1428 ormemory buffer 1424 and to cause a light on a button illuminate inresponse to being selected.

Referring to FIG. 52 , a flowchart of a process 1500 for controlling thetemperature of a flowable food product in a dispenser is shown accordingto an exemplary embodiment. The process 1500 includes the steps ofreceiving a first temperature from a food product sensor (step 1504) anddetermining if the first temperature is below a lower operating limitfor the flowable food product (step 1506). If no, then reduce power tothe heating elements (step 1508). If yes, then receive a secondtemperature from a pan sensor (step 1510) and determine if the pantemperature is below a pan upper limit operating temperature (step1512). If no, then reduce power to the heating elements (step 1508). Ifyes, then increase power to the heating elements (step 1514).

The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown inthe various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only afew embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, manymodifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values ofparameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements may bereversed or otherwise varied and the nature or number of discreteelements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of thepresent disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method stepsmay be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be madein the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the exemplaryembodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and programproducts on any machine-readable media for accomplishing variousoperations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implementedusing existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computerprocessor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or anotherpurpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of thepresent disclosure include program products comprising machine-readablemedia for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or datastructures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be anyavailable media that can be accessed by a general purpose or specialpurpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example,such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROMor other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magneticstorage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or storedesired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions ordata structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose orspecial purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Wheninformation is transferred or provided over a network or anothercommunications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combinationof hardwired or wireless) to a machine, the machine properly views theconnection as a machine-readable medium. Thus, any such connection isproperly termed a machine-readable medium. Combinations of the above arealso included within the scope of machine-readable media.Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions anddata which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer,or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function orgroup of functions.

Although the figures show a specific order of method steps, the order ofthe steps may differ from what is depicted. Also two or more steps maybe performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variationwill depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designerchoice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure.Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standardprogramming techniques with rule based logic and other logic toaccomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparisonsteps and decision steps.

What is claimed is:
 1. A dispenser for dispensing a flowable foodproduct from a flexible reservoir supported by the dispenser, thedispenser comprising: a frame; a body coupled to the frame, the bodydefining a cavity for receiving the flexible reservoir, wherein the bodyincludes: a bottom wall defining an opening; a sloped wall extendingupward from the bottom wall and the opening, the sloped wall promoting aflow of the flowable food product from the flexible reservoir towardsthe opening; and a pair of side walls extending upward from the bottomwall and the sloped wall; and a fitment acceptor at least partlyreceived in the opening, the fitment acceptor including forward andrearward sidewalls, wherein a radius of curvature of the forwardsidewall differs from a radius of curvature of the rearward sidewall,wherein the radius of curvature of the forward sidewall and the radiusof the curvature of the rearward sidewall correspond with radiuses ofcurvature of respective front and rear ends of a fitment of the flexiblereservoir such that the fitment of the flexible reservoir is onlyinsertable in the fitment acceptor in one relative orientation betweenthe fitment and the fitment acceptor.
 2. The dispenser of claim 1,wherein when the fitment acceptor is received in the opening, at leastpart of the fitment acceptor is positioned substantially flush with thebottom wall.
 3. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fitment acceptorincludes an upper flange and the sidewall extends down from the upperflange.
 4. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein an interface between theupper flange and the sidewall is a rounded edge to promote an ease ofreception of the fitment of the flexible reservoir.
 5. The dispenser ofclaim 1, wherein the frame defines a compartment positioned away fromthe body, wherein the compartment is configured to store another fitmentacceptor.
 6. The dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a housingremovably coupled to the frame, wherein when the housing is removed, theflexible reservoir is capable of being received in the cavity.
 7. Thedispenser of claim 1, wherein the body includes one or more projections,the one or more projections configured to hold and support the flexiblereservoir in the cavity.
 8. A system for dispensing a flowable foodproduct, the system comprising: a bag configured to hold the flowablefood product; a fitment coupled to the bag; and a dispenser including: aframe; a body coupled to the frame, the body defining a cavity forreceiving the bag, wherein the body includes a bottom wall defining anopening; and a fitment acceptor at least partly received in the opening,the fitment acceptor including forward and rearward sidewalls, wherein aradius of curvature of the forward sidewall differs from a radius ofcurvature of the rearward sidewall; wherein the radius of curvature ofthe forward sidewall and the radius of the curvature of the rearwardsidewall correspond with radiuses of curvature of respective front andrear ends of the fitment such that the fitment is received in thefitment acceptor in one relative orientation between the fitmentacceptor and the fitment.
 9. The system of claim 8, further comprising adisplay device and a temperature sensor, wherein the temperature sensoris positioned near the opening in order to obtain a temperature of theflowable food product in the bag proximate to the opening, and whereinthe display device is configured to display the temperature of theflowable food product in the bag.
 10. The system of claim 8, wherein thedispenser further includes a light configured to illuminate a positionwhere the flowable food product will be dispensed when the dispenser isactuated.
 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the dispenser includes aprojection, wherein the bag defines a hole, and wherein the hole isconfigured to receive the projection in order to hold and support thebag in the cavity.
 12. A flowable food product dispenser, the dispensercomprising: a frame; a body coupled to the frame, the body defining acavity for receiving a bag storing the flowable food product, whereinthe body includes a bottom wall defining an opening and a fitmentacceptor at least partly received in the opening, the fitment acceptorincluding forward and rearward sidewalls, wherein a radius of curvatureof the forward sidewall differs from a radius of curvature of therearward sidewall, wherein the radius of curvature of the forwardsidewall and the radius of the curvature of the rearward sidewallcorrespond with radiuses of curvature of respective front and rear endsof a fitment of the bag such that the fitment of the bag is onlyinsertable in the fitment acceptor in one relative orientation betweenthe fitment and the fitment acceptor; a valve configured to selectivelyallow the flowable food product to flow out of the bag; and a controlsystem configured to control the valve to control an amount of theflowable food product dispensed from the bag.
 13. The dispenser of claim12, wherein the control system is configured to receive an indication ofa desired amount of the flowable food product, open the valve, and tracka time that the valve is open in order to dispense the desired amount ofthe flowable food product.
 14. The dispenser of claim 12, furthercomprising a user input device, wherein the control system is configuredto receive an indication of a user engaging with the user input deviceand open the valve for as long as the user engages with the user inputdevice.
 15. The dispenser of claim 12, wherein the control system isconfigured to sum a total amount of the flowable food product dispensedover a period of time based on an amount of time that the valve is openover the period of time, and selectively provide an alert based on thesum.
 16. The dispenser of claim 12, further comprising a display and atemperature sensor, wherein the temperature sensor is positioned nearthe opening in order to determine a temperature of the flowable foodproduct in the bag proximate to the opening, and wherein the display isconfigured to display the temperature.
 17. The dispenser of claim 16,further comprising a heating element configured to selectively heat thebag, wherein the control system is configured receive the temperaturefrom the temperature sensor, and in response, adjust power to theheating element to control an amount of heat provided to the bag. 18.The dispenser of claim 12, wherein the dispenser includes a projectionconfigured to be inserted at least partly through a hole of the bag inorder to hold and support the bag in the cavity.